Biography
Steven Paynter is the Regional Growth Director for Gensler’s Canadian offices, as well as the Global Practice Area Leader for Building Transformation and Adaptive Reuse.
Embodying the philosophy that diversity fosters innovation, Steven is widely recognized as an industry leader and an invaluable resource for market expertise to developers, landlords, and tenants alike. His ability to combine technical execution with elegant design and his commitment to each project makes him sought-after by clients across all industries.
Steven was recognized by Business Insider as one of the Top 100 People Transforming Business in 2022, and appeared on Forbes’ The Future of Work list, which highlights the top 50 leaders rethinking the world of work, in 2023.
Our approach to office conversions is grounded in facts — real data, real buildings, and real economic conditions — so that cities can craft policies that actually work in the real world.
Selected Projects
Qualifications and Recognition
Bachelor of Architecture, Newcastle University; ADPPA Architectural Management, University of Liverpool
Ontario
Ontario Association of Architects (OAA)
Urban Land Institute (ULI)
ICBA's Construction's Most Influential People (2024), Forbes’ Top 50 People Influencing the Future of Work (2023), Business Insider's 100 People Transforming Business (2022)
Panelist at the Calgary Real Estate Forum, 2026; Keynote speaker at the Adaptable Building Conference in Rotterdam, 2026; Panelist at the ULI Spring Meeting, 2025