The term “ekistics”, coined by the renowned urban planner Doxiadis (1903-75), was derived from the Greek word oikos meaning settlement or home. It describes the interdisciplinary study of human settlement making. The issues of community require a broad knowledge base that is best understood through different backgrounds and perspectives. EKISTICS brings together an energetic team of design professionals representing a wide spectrum of expertise in planning, architecture and landscape architecture. The professional expertise of EKISTICS lies in our ability to bridge the gap between disciplines, to unveil the spirit of place, and to collectively design based on sound, innovative principles. From concept development to detailed design, EKISTICS possesses the experience and commitment to successfully realize award-winning projects. It has been said that design is more discovery than invention. With its comprehensive approach to results-oriented planning and architecture, EKISTICS has developed a respected reputation for creative, contextual and realistic responses to the complex issues of buildings and communities. EKISTICS’s work is exploratory as it strives to find innovative solutions that are appropriate to each unique context. The firm's work is always grounded within the framework of sound financial analyses. EKISTICS' reputation has been established primarily in Canada and China where numerous award-winning projects have been successfully constructed. The firm's proven approach has brought life to over 350 planning and architectural projects around the world. EKISTICS was founded in Vancouver in 1992 by Paul Rosenau. As President of EKISTICS, Paul leads the firm’s three offices in Vancouver, Shanghai and Ho Chi Minh and currently focuses his attention on large-scale resort projects in Asia. He was later joined by Paul Fenske, Mark Monteiro, Ron Baerg and Mark Blackwood in order to expand the company's depth and grow its ability to service both local and international markets.