Why paying a Living Wage matters at LEES

In this short blog, Heidi Redman, Principal at LEES, explains why they became a Living Wage Employer, and the benefits they’ve found from being part of the program. 

LEES is an award-winning landscape architecture and planning firm. We draw on our talented array of over 20 staff—including professional landscape architects, planners, accessibility specialists, and engagement professionals—to plan meaningful landscapes that support the goals and visions of our clients, and their communities. LEES is proudly a majority women-owned company operating out of our main office in Vancouver, with regional offices in Guelph and Whitehorse. 

We have been a Living Wage Employer since 2025. Supporting the living wage campaign reflects LEES’ desire to invest in and support our staff’s health, well-being, and quality of life. We recognize that fair compensation helps our team to thrive in their professional and personal lives.  

Since becoming a Living Wage Employer, we’ve noticed real, positive changes in our workplace.  Paying a living wage reflects our vision to build a sustainable company that has a meaningful impact on people, the land, and communities. 

At LEES, we also aim to support staff wellbeing through policies including a work from home policy, birthday day off, outdoor recreation days, professional development allowance, group RRSP program, extended health benefits, generous paid time off, and more.  

Paying a Living Wage doesn’t just benefit our team, it strengthens the local economy and helps families thrive. We’re proud to be part of a movement that’s making a difference across British Columbia. Beyond our day-to-day, staff also volunteer their time in a variety of ways, including licensure mentorship, serving on Boards and Advisory Design Panels, attending studio and portfolio reviews, and acting as guest lecturers.  

We encourage others to join us in becoming Living Wage Employers. Together, we can create a fairer, more sustainable future for everyone. 

Certifying as a Living Wage Employer is a voluntary commitment employers make to invest in their communities and local economies. There are now over 500 Living Wage Employers across BC. 

The living wage is the hourly amount someone needs to earn to pay for basic essentials like food and rent, it doesn’t include paying off debt or saving for retirement. The Living Wage for Vancouver is now $27.85 an hour. 

Find out more about LEES on their website: https://elac.ca/