Villagers

Back to Villagers

I'm Kelsey LoVe

Founder + Dreamer
Kilo Lima Code
Regina, SK

What is your current job role and building code experience?

I am based out of Regina, and am the Founder and Dreamer here at Kilo Lima Code. Over the last 8 years, I’ve worked both as a municipal building permit plan reviewer, and a consultant in SK and BC. I understand challenges from both sides and really believe with a little more understanding of each other, the entire process will go smoother for all parties involved. 

My enthusiasm for systems change has resulted in me being an on-again/off-again code consultant since founding Kilo in 2020. I’ve mostly moved away from the technical nitty-gritty to put my brain power and energy towards shifting the industry beyond the codes.

My bff, Andrea, and I founded Totemica Consulting in spring 2023 after six years of dreaming about a consulting company specializing in the challenges that come along with existing buildings. As Building Code nerds with backgrounds in environmental engineering, we are passionate about existing building reuse and the preservation of community and culturally significant buildings. 

 

WHAT IMPACT DO YOU HOPE TO HAVE AT KILO LIMA?

I hope that every person who engages with Kilo Lima, leaves with a better understanding the Canadian Construction Codes, and a renewed hope of a better world!

WHAT ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT OUTSIDE THE OFFICE?

My tiny humans. I love to run amuck out in nature them. The simple things they remind me of bring me so much joy. Collecting sticks and rocks, laying together on the floor and reading Percy Jackson, and playing Ms.Wolf. Slowing down with them is my favourite.  

The last few years have been full of soul exploration and change, and I’ve discovered I’m passionate about a ridiculous amount of things. My current obsessions is the art of placemaking and creating enchanting spaces through revitalizing the urban environment. 

What are the biggest challenges facing the building code industry today?

The biggest challenge is the lack of knowledge sharing….which I hope becomes a distant memory after Kilo Lima! Moving from an AHJ in Saskatchewan, to a code consultant in British Columbia… my mind was blown at how much knowledge and resources are out there that I had no idea about. With a national code (albeit slightly modified by various provinces), there has to be a better way. 

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”

What project or initiative have you heard about lately that really inspires you?

I’ve recently read Teresa Coady’s new book, Rebuilding Earth. To say it inspired me is an understatement. The book has put into words what I have subconsciously known is a missing piece for so, so long. My background is environmental systems engineering, and her ideas feed both my tree hugger and Building Code souls. 

HOW CAN THE INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTE TO GLOBAL SOLUTIONS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY?

There are so many opportunities to make more conscious decisions no matter what part of the industry you work in. I recommend reading Rebuilding Earth, and drop me a line once you do if you feel as strongly about the message as I do! My advice is to always question if there is a better way, and to never forget what the wise old Dr Seuss said: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”