Nik Luka

Nik Luka is an Associate Professor at the School of Architecture, McGill University, with a joint appointment in Urban Planning. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Toronto, an M.Arch. from Laval University, and a B.A.A. from Toronto Metropolitan University. His roles include Associate Director of the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research on Montréal and associate memberships in the Department of Equity, Ethics, and Policy and the Bieler School of Environment.

• Ph.D. (Toronto)
• M.Arch. (Laval)
• B.A.A. (Toronto Met.)

Luka specializes in ethnography, landscape studies, and critical design/planning research, focusing on REURBANISM—the transformation of (sub)urban landscapes through collaborative design and participatory governance. His work bridges natural processes and human culture, emphasizing narrative, discourse, and policy-led urbanism.

His recent publications highlight trends in recreational mobilities, densification, transit-oriented development, and periurban landscape dynamics. Themes span urban walkability, public space design, and transdisciplinary approaches to sustainability.

• SSHRC Partnership Grant with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
• Collaborative projects in Sweden and continental Europe
• Champ des Possibles partnership in Montreal

Luka engages with community organizations such as the Montreal Urban Ecology Centre, Convercité, and Suspicious Fish, blending academic research with civic practice. His affiliations include the Trottier Institute for Sustainability in Engineering and Design and international collaborations on landscape connectivity.