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Limor Benmor-Mizrahiâs path to architecture was anything but linearâand thatâs what makes her story so compelling. Trained initially in the sciences with aspirations of entering medicine, Limorâs journey took a sharp turn during a revelatory trip through Europe, where she fell in love with the built world. Since then, sheâs crossed continents, studied at Tel Avivâs Bauhaus-inspired Sadna School of Architecture and Pratt Institute in New York, and built a multifaceted career that spans master planning, institutional work, and custom residential design.
Born into a family of Israeli immigrants who built their livesâand homesâin Toronto, Limor credits her late father, Avi Benmor, a builder and entrepreneur, as her subliminal inspiration. Her career began in Israel, where she worked under Holocaust survivor and architectural mentor Rita Dunsky-Feuerstein, gaining experience in both architecture and urban planning. She later moved to New York to complete her formal training and eventually returned to Canada, where she became a licensed architect and launched her own practice at the onset of the pandemic.
In this candid and richly textured conversation, Limor reflects on the personal and professional forces that have shaped her work: from tiling her own kitchen in her first apartment to designing community infrastructure in Israel, and now to crafting elegant, light-filled homes across Toronto. She speaks about the differences in construction methodology between continents, the nuance of working with trades, the vital role of interiors in architectural vision, and her deep appreciation for materiality and light.
Whether sheâs designing a city block or a family home, Limor brings to every project a quiet intensity, thoughtful sensitivity, and an architectâs X-ray vision that sees not just what is, but what could be.
Curated Podcast Sponsors:
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The Doors: https://thedoors4u.com/
To connect with our sponsors, email me: [email protected]
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AnneâMarieâŻArmstrong is an architect, educator and coâfounding principal of AAmpâŻStudio, the crossâborder practice she leads with partner AndrewâŻAshey from twin studios in Toronto, Ontario, and Portland,âŻMaine.
Raised in DonâŻMills, Toronto, Armstrong spent childhood afternoons sketching with her painterâgrandmother and solving logic riddles with her mathematician fatherâan artâandâmath pairing that still drives her design thinking. She earned an Honours BAS from the UniversityâŻofâŻWaterloo and, as a Fulbright Scholar, a Master of Architecture from Yale University. Before launching AAmp she sharpened her skills in three markedly different contexts: facade detailing at DiamondâŻSchmitt (Toronto), competition work with former Foster +âŻPartners staff at Aedas (London), and physical model making in the FrankâŻGehryâŻPartners shop (LosâŻAngeles), with formative stints in Berlin and NewâŻHaven along the way.
Today she holds architecture licences in Ontario, California and Maine and brings 15âŻyears of professional experience to AAmpâs portfolio, which spans bespoke Toronto residences, awardâwinning DeathâŻ&âŻCo cocktail bars, the Ramble Hotel brand, and a 100âroom boutique hotel in Savannah. The studioâs ânoâweekendâgrindâ ethos and BIPOC leadership shape a culture of collaboration and wellbeing for its biânational nineâperson team.
Armstrong is also an Assistant Professor (Teaching Stream) at the JohnâŻH.âŻDaniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design at the UniversityâŻofâŻToronto, where her courses foreground diversity, equitable practice and the everyday city. Whether crafting a neighbourhood cafĂ©, orchestrating a hospitality flagship or mentoring emerging architects, she champions the idea that thoughtful, inclusive design can transform experience at every scale.
Curated Podcast Sponsors:
Caplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/
The Doors: https://thedoors4u.com/
To connect with our sponsors, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast
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NadeenâŻRajani, is the newly minted principal of Drawing Room Architect, the Toronto studio known for marrying rigorous detailing with lived in warmth across custom homes and cottages.
Born in Abu Dhabi, raised in Saskatoon, and seasoned by solo backpacking through Europe, she brings a cosmopolitan lens to every project. After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Saskatchewan she completed her Master of Architecture at the University of Toronto, a program that blended design theory with big city experimentation. Early work in residential architecture and later in luxury hospitality interiors sharpened both halves of her craft, giving her the structural problem solving of an architect and the material choreography of an interior designer.
Rajani joined Drawing Room in 2012, became partner in 2022 and stepped into full leadership when cofounder StewartâŻWatson retired in 2024. Today she guides a three person studio through every phase of work from zoning strategy to the last cabinet pull on projects that range from heritage renovations in Rosedale to glass skinned additions in PalmâŻBeach and lakefront retreats on BigwinâŻIsland. Clients and builders value her calm command on site, her exacting wall section sketches and a collaborative style that turns construction meetings into collective problem solving sessions.
Committed to mentorship and equitable practice, Rajani credits veteran technologists BudâŻHart and HectorâŻRomero for modelling the craft plus care ethos she now passes on.
Beyond the studio she recharges with family art outings, quiet weekends with her husband and two daughters, and the occasional late night sketch that still keeps her up at twoâŻa.m., proof that architecture remains equal parts vocation and adventure.
Curated Podcast Sponsors:
Caplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/
The Doors: https://thedoors4u.com/
To connect with our sponsors, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast
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Todd Saunders grew up on Newfoundlandâs rugged coast, carving cabins and learning early that good buildings start with good stories. That hands-on childhood nudged him through a planning degree at Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, Halifax, Canada; a semester at Rhode Island School of Design, Providence, United States; and an M.Arch. at McGill University, MontrĂ©al, Canada. Stints with landscape architect Maria Auböck, Vienna, Austria; urbanist Rob Krier, Berlin, Germany; and designer Jane Durante, Vancouver, Canada sharpened his craft, while a hitch-and-rail trek that began in Paris, France, boarded the Trans-Siberian in Moscow, Russia, and rattled east for days proved that place matters more than style.
In 1996 he settled in Bergen, Norway, and two years later opened Saunders Architecture, small on purpose, restless by nature. First came the timber Aurland Lookout, Aurland, Norway; then the Hardanger Cabin, Ullensvang, Norway; and a ring of stark-white artist studios that helped remote Fogo Island, Canada step onto the world stage. Those one-offs opened bigger canvases: Villa G on Lake NordĂ„s near Bergen; Roxanne Quimbyâs museum, Maine, United States; and community plans for Carraig Ridge, Alberta, Canada and Cypress Village, British Columbia, Canada. Today the studio counts 35-plus commissions in eleven countries, yet Todd still begins every project the old way with a pencil in hand, boots on the ground, chasing the right view line before the first stroke on paper.
When he isnât sketching on a mountain trail, youâll find him teaching at Bergen ArkitekthĂžgskole, Bergen, Norway; guest-critiquing at Cornell University, Ithaca, United States; or fly-fishing with the rod his dad gifted at graduation, a reminder to stay true to home, craft, and the long game.
After three decades he still believes: build lightly, frame the horizon, and let quality shout louder than size.
Curated Podcast Sponsors:
Lutron Electronics: https://www.lutron.com/us/en
Caplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/
The Doors: https://thedoors4u.com/
To connect with our sponsors, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/
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Kfir Gluzberg is the founder and principal of Kilogram Studio, a Toronto-based architecture practice recognized for its inventive approach to residential, retail, and commercial interiors. Kfirâs path into architecture has been anything but linearârooted in early artistic exploration, shaped by international education, and driven by a commitment to both cultural nuance and pragmatic design.
A graduate of the University of Waterlooâs architecture program, Kfir later earned advanced degrees from the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC) in Barcelona and McGill University in Montreal. These experiences provided a foundation in both digital fabrication and architectural theory, which continue to influence Kilogramâs work today.
Kfir began his professional career at RAW Design and Levitt Goodman Architects (now LGA), and also spent time at Efrat Kowalsky in Tel Aviv, contributing to high-profile cultural projects such as the Israel Museum. In 2015â2016, he launched Kilogram Studio, with early momentum driven by a prolific collaboration with Greenhouse Juice Co.âa partnership that has since yielded more than 20 retail and production projects across Canada.
Under Kfirâs leadership, Kilogram has grown into a nimble studio that blends conceptual design with technical execution. The practice is currently engaged in ReHousing, a Neptis Foundationâfunded research initiative with U of T and LGA focused on enabling small-scale apartment buildings through zoning reform.
Outside of practice, Kfir is active in professional advocacy. He has taught at the University of Toronto and currently co-leads the TSA Forums with the Toronto Society of Architects, curating public discourse around labour, practice models, and industry transformation. He also previously served on the board of a Toronto-based LGBTQ+ water polo team, and remains an advocate for inclusive design and community-building.
Kfirâs work spans the detailed and the systemicâfrom rethinking how two materials meet to how entire neighbourhoods could evolveâalways guided by curiosity, culture, and care.
Curated Podcast Sponsors:
Caplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/
The Doors: https://thedoors4u.com/
To connect with our sponsors, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/
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Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, AndrĂ©s Muñoz AlarcĂłn is the founder and creative force behind EStudio AMA, a thriving design practice based in Mexico City. A graduate of Universidad Iberoamericana, AndrĂ©s built his early foundation with summers spent abroad interning and studying in cities like Los Angeles, New York, Paris, and Chicagoâexperiences that shaped his global design sensibility and deepened his appreciation for architectural diversity.
Before launching EStudio AMA, AndrĂ©s spent nearly a decade with renowned Mexican firm Sordo Madaleno, where he rapidly rose through the ranks to lead major hospitality, residential, and commercial projects across Mexico, South America, and Europe. In 2022, he founded EStudio AMA with a vision to merge conceptual clarity with organizational precisionâlaunching with high-profile commissions that speak to that ambition.
Today, EStudio AMA is a 25-person multidisciplinary team with projects ranging from private residences and mixed-use towers to large-scale international collaborations. A standout among these is the Legend Tower in Guadalajaraâdesigned in partnership with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)âcurrently the largest SOM-led project in Latin America. The studio also collaborates on major developments in Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, and South America.
Operating with a hybrid team structure, EStudio AMA emphasizes strong conceptual narratives, in-house branding, and coordinated execution. AndrĂ©s's vision for growth is rooted in human-centered leadership, offering his team benefits like wellness programs and profit-sharing, while cultivating a collaborative culture that transcends borders. With continued conversations underway with firms in Europe and North America, EStudio AMA is poised to become a global design voiceâanchored by Mexican roots and international outlook.
Sponsors:
Lutron: https://www.lutron.com/us/en
Caplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/
The Doors: https://thedoors4u.com/
To connect with our sponsors, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/
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We celebrate Behind the Build turning one year old with a conversation that goes straight to the heart of where it all began. In this anniversary episode, Jonathan sits down with Bruce Borden â one of the original founders & co-principals of Walden Homes, alongside Danny Morris, & the person with whom the idea for this podcast was first imagined six years ago.
A founder, mentor, & process-driven thinker, Bruce shares the early blueprint of the company, how it evolved from speculative builds in the â90s to a construction management firm focused on delivering architecturally challenging & significant homes â all through a deeply collaborative, process-led model that prizes adaptability, precision, & long-term partnership.
Bruce & Jonathan revisit the conversations that sparked the idea for this very podcast & dive into the philosophy thatâs shaped Waldenâs identity: structure, transparency, continuous iteration, & the real-world tools that power effective site & team coordination. From faxes & spreadsheets to fully integrated cloud systems & recorded jobsite walkthroughs, Bruceâs lens on technology isnât about flash â itâs about function & clarity.
Beyond tech, the episode uncovers Bruceâs foundational inspiration from his father, his early exposure to construction, & his emphasis on giving construction managers the autonomy & tools to lead projects well. The conversation also touches on Waldenâs shift away from in-house design, choosing instead to build meaningful partnerships with architects & interior designers, & the consultants who enable us all to execute to the highest level â freeing up creative vision while anchoring execution in strong project delivery systems.
Bruce opens up about the human side of running a business: the search for betterment, the value of collaborative critique, & treating a 30-year-old company with the curiosity & nimbleness of a startup. Itâs a rare behind-the-scenes look at the thought leadership that quietly fuels the systems, culture, & client experiences Walden Homes delivers every day.
Sponsors:
Lutron: https://www.lutron.com/us/en
Caplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/
The Doors: https://thedoors4u.com/
To connect with our sponsors, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/
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Maggie Bennedsen and Amin Ebrahim are principals at KSA, a practice known for its diverse and impactful architectural work. Maggie has been with KSA since 1998, and Amin joined the firm in 2013. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the practice, contributing significantly to its success and reputation for designing thoughtful, enduring spaces.
Maggie Bennedsen, originally from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, completed her studies at the University of Waterloo, earning a Bachelor of Environmental Studies (BES) and a Bachelor of Architecture (BArch). After joining KSA in 1998, Maggie worked on high-profile projects such as the Arrendale Student Centre. She has built a career focused on residential design and public buildings, with a particular passion for creating meaningful spaces that reflect the needs of the people who use them. Outside of architecture, Maggie is an avid adventurer and cyclist. She and her husband, Rick Galezowski embarked on an epic "pole-to-pole" bike trip, a journey that became a defining chapter in her life. Her love for exploring the world, combined with her architectural pursuits, shapes her approach to design, always seeking new perspectives and experiences. Maggieâs work is driven by a commitment to design excellence, collaboration, and community involvement.
Amin Ebrahimâs path to architecture began with a civil engineering degree from MIT. After discovering his passion for architectural history and design, Amin transitioned into architecture and later completed his professional degree at McGill University. He joined KSA in 2013, where his diverse background in engineering and architecture has been instrumental in tackling complex design challenges. Amin has been involved in projects ranging from public institutions to residential spaces, and his work is defined by a focus on both technical precision and creative problem-solving. When not immersed in design, Amin enjoys spending time with his family and exploring the outdoors. He is particularly active and enjoys travel and hiking with his family. His interest in building relationships extends beyond his professional life, and he strives to foster a balanced life of work, family, and adventure.
Together, Maggie and Amin have shaped KSAâs dynamic practice, bringing their years of experience, diverse expertise, and shared commitment to innovative design.
Sponsored by Caplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/
To connect with Caplan's Appliances, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/
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Ben Gaum built his path to architecture from a young age, after a school test in Grade 5 surprisingly and accurately suggested âarchitectâ as the perfect intersection of his creative and analytical strengths. That early insight stayed with him and eventually shaped his formal education and career. He began with an architectural technology degree at Fanshawe College, where he gained deep technical knowledge and became part of the last generation to hand-draft working drawings. He later pursued architecture at Dalhousie for his undergrad and completed his masterâs at Ryerson, balancing conceptual thinking with practical execution.
Early in his career, Ben worked with several large and mid-sized firms, including KIRKOR Architects and Humphreys Partners, developing a strong foundation in high-density residential and mixed-use work. In 2017, he co-founded a practice and, within a few years, assumed full ownershipâleading the studio as sole principal from that point on. The firm launched with major multi-residential projects already underway, giving Ben an unusually fast transition from startup to active construction.
His work stands out for its pragmatism, experimentation, and design execution. Whether delivering a fully precast 144-unit condo in Hamilton or exploring advanced fabrication techniques for an educational project, his approach consistently merges design innovation with technical resolution.
Ben is also the founder of Block House, a studio focused on container-based laneway and garden suites. What began as a personal project became a scalable initiative to reduce construction costs and time, while addressing housing in dense urban contexts. Block House combines prefabrication, steel construction, and architectural detail in a way thatâs both efficient and flexibleâoften coming in at 30% less than traditional builds.
Outside of practice, Ben is a musician, a former photographer, a golfer, and a dad. His work and his studio are driven by curiosity, technical craft, and a love for solving real architectural problems through design.
Sponsored by Caplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/
To connect with Caplan's Appliances, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/
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Frank DiSarra, principal of Frank Franco Architects, has dedicated over 25 years to shaping contemporary architecture that seamlessly blends artistry with technical precision. A graduate of Carleton Universityâs architecture program, Frankâs early education instilled in him a deep appreciation for both design theory and hands-on craftsmanship. His journey in the industry has been anything but linearâbeginning with traditional architectural practice before expanding into construction management and even launching a millwork company to refine his understanding of materials and fabrication.
Throughout his career, Frank has worked on an array of projects, from high-end custom homes in Ontario to designs for international sites, including residences in Jamaica and New York. His exposure to global architecture has influenced his meticulous approach to detailing and his ability to create spaces that are both functional and striking. Whether designing expansive estates on sprawling properties or navigating the constraints of urban lots, he thrives on the challenge of balancing innovative aesthetics with the realities of construction.
Frank's commitment to craftsmanship stems from his early years, where time spent with his grandfather instilled a passion for tinkering, repurposing materials, and problem-solving. Today, this same ethos guides his work, as he remains deeply involved in the construction processâcollaborating closely with trades, overseeing site details, and ensuring that every project is executed with the highest level of precision.
With a boutique practice that takes on only a select number of projects each year, Frank prioritizes quality over quantity, focusing on bespoke designs that push the boundaries of contemporary architecture. His work is a testament to the power of thoughtful, well-crafted designâwhere even the simplest details are executed with intention and expertise.
Sponsored by Caplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/
To connect with Caplan's Appliances, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/
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Building codes are often seen as limitations, but for David Hine of David Hine Engineering Fire and Building Code Consultant, they offer opportunitiesâif you know where to look. As an engineer and building code consultant, David has worked alongside architects and builders for decades, ensuring that complex designs meet regulatory standards without losing their intent. His expertise has shaped projects like Integral House by Shim-Sutcliffe, the OCAD building, and some of Torontoâs most challenging residential builds, including Iceberg houses with deep basements and structurally ambitious homes.
Davidâs career started in municipal building departments, but he transitioned to consulting to work directly with architects, helping them navigate fire safety, accessibility, and evolving regulations. His role isnât just about complianceâitâs about finding solutions. He played a key part in pushing back against restrictive policies around laneway and garden suites, helping to open up more housing opportunities in Toronto.
In our conversation, David shared his perspective on how building codes have changed, from early fire protection standards to todayâs focus on accessibility. He also spoke about the importance of challenging rigid interpretations of the code, advocating for creative solutions that support good design. Whether working through alternative compliance strategies or rethinking how buildings interact with their occupants, Davidâs approach is grounded in both technical expertise and a deep respect for architecture.
As he gradually winds down his practice, David remains a strong advocate for architects leveraging code consultants early in the design process. His work is a reminder that great buildings arenât just about aestheticsâtheyâre about problem-solving, compliance, and making spaces work better for the people who use them.
Sponsored by Caplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/
To connect with Caplan's Appliances, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/
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In the heart of Canadaâs North, Jackie Burgess and Chris Chevalier are redefining architecture through their firm, s.no Architecture. Based in Whitehorse, Yukon, their practice is shaped by extreme climates, long winters, and a commitment to designing buildings that not only endure but thrive in the northern environment.
s.no Architectureâs work is informed by the dramatic seasonal swings of the Yukonâfive-hour winter days, midnight sun in summer, and temperature fluctuations from -40°C to +30°C. Their approach balances energy efficiency with liveability, pushing beyond building code minimums to create durable, high-performing structures that remain deeply connected to place. Materials must be robust yet transportable, often prioritizing metal over masonry due to logistical challenges, while insulation strategies are tailored to mitigate permafrost shifts and extreme cold.
Beyond technical constraints, s.noâs work is also defined by sits cultural sensitivity. Much of their practice involves working with Yukonâs self-governing First Nations, where architecture intersects with governance, heritage, and long-term sustainability. They understand that buildings must not only function in a harsh climate but also serve the needs of communities with their own histories, priorities, and maintenance capacities.
Despite their deep roots in the North, Jackie and Chris are always looking outwardâstudying how other cold-climate communities design, adapt, and build for longevity. Whether learning from Scandinavian architecture or simply stepping away for a warm-weather recharge, they bring a curiosity and pragmatism to everything they do.
Through s.no Architecture, they are shaping the built environment of the Yukon with a forward-thinking, practical, and deeply local approachâone that considers not just how buildings perform today, but how they will serve their communities for generations to come.
Sponsored by Caplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/
To connect with Caplan's Appliances, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/
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Founded in 2020 by Jackie Burgess and Chris Chevalier, s.no architecture is a Whitehorse-based studio shaped by the unique environmental and cultural context of the North. Their nameâan abbreviation for "site north office"âreflects their commitment to designing architecture that responds to climate, community, and place.
Jackie, a Yukoner who grew up in Beaver Creek, and Chris, originally from Edmonton, met while studying architecture at the University of Manitoba and later earned their masterâs degrees from the University of Calgary. Their professional journey took them through firms across Canada, but ultimately, they were drawn to the opportunity and challenge of building in the North.
s.no architecture emerged from a deep-rooted ambition to create meaningful and lasting spaces in the Yukon. The firmâs early years were defined by bootstrappingâworking from home with secondhand equipment, leveraging family support, and taking on a series of residential projects that established their reputation. Today, their portfolio extends beyond homes to include mixed-use developments, cultural spaces, and affordable housing, all designed with a sensitivity to the realities of northern construction.
Notable projects include The Current, a 34-unit mixed-use building in downtown Whitehorse, and 408 Wood Street, a seven-unit infill project maximizing urban density. Their work has earned national recognition, including being named to Twenty + Change, a program highlighting Canadaâs emerging design talent.
Specializing in resilient, energy-efficient design, s.no architecture embraces the challenges of working in extreme conditionsâfrom limited daylight to harsh wintersâcreating architecture that is not only functional but deeply connected to the northern way of life.
Stay Tuned for Part Two!
Sponsored by Caplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/
To connect with Caplan's Appliances, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/
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Lisa Kooistra is the Principal Designer and Creative Director of LKD (Lisa Kooistra Designs), a Burlington-based interior design studio specializing in full-scale residential projects, from renovations to custom new builds. With over a decade of industry experience, Lisa has built a practice rooted in collaboration, thoughtful design, and a deep respect for how people live in their homes.
Her passion for design began early, influenced by hands-on creative experiences and an interest in spatial planning. After studying interior design at Sheridan College, Lisa worked across various design sectors, including furniture retail, condominium development, and high-end residential interiors. These experiences shaped her approach and led her to launch LKD, a firm that emphasizes curated, functional spaces tailored to each clientâs lifestyle.
Beyond aesthetics, Lisa prioritizes sustainability and quality craftsmanship, working with local artisans and suppliers to ensure longevity in design. Her studio operates with a structured process that balances creativity with efficiency, allowing clients to navigate the complexities of home design with confidence.
Lisa and her team continue to expand their reach, taking on projects across Canada while keeping an eye on future opportunities beyond. Whether transforming heritage homes or designing contemporary retreats, her work reflects a refined yet livable sensibility, always with a focus on making spaces feel personal and timeless.
To connect with Caplan's, email me: [email protected]
If you have guest suggestions, please me.
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Rick Galezowski is the founding principal of Great Lake Studio, a small and nimble architectural practice in Toronto. His work focuses on a selective range of projects, maintaining a strong connection to nature and thoughtful design.
Rickâs path into architecture began at the University of Waterloo, where he earned his degree. During his time there, he participated in the universityâs co-op program, which included a transformative placement in Rome. This experience provided him with a broader view of architecture, one that valued both history and innovation.
After graduating, Rick worked at Kohn Shnier Architects, a firm known for its commitment to quality and creative design. It was there that he met Maggie Bennedson, a fellow architect with a shared love for adventure. Their connection grew both professionally and personally, leading to a strong partnership. Together, they shared a love for long bike trips, with both spending years cycling through remote landscapes, living in tents, and immersing themselves in the natural world, including trips from Alaska to the southern tip of Chile, and through Myanmar, Indonesia and more. These travels shaped not only their personal lives but also their approach to architecture, emphasizing simplicity, connection to nature, and a love for the outdoors.
Rickâs passion for the outdoors didnât stop with cycling. He and Maggie also embarked on backcountry canoe trips, further deepening their bond with the natural world, including their most recent trip into the depths of Ontario, including the highly secluded and rarely travelled Wabakimi Provincial Park. These adventures continue to influence Rickâs design philosophy, as he seeks to create spaces that harmonize with their environments.
In 2015, Rick founded Great Lake Studio, focusing on a small-scale practice that remains agile and dedicated to high-quality projects. The studioâs work reflects his commitment to creating spaces that are functional, elegant, and connected to the landscapes around them. Rickâs approach to architecture is deeply rooted in his experiences, both in the field and on the road, where heâs learned to appreciate the balance between design and nature.
Through his personal and professional journey, Rick Galezowski has developed a unique architectural voice, one that prioritizes authenticity, thoughtful design, and an enduring connection to the world around him.
To connect with Caplan's Appliances, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/
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In this second installment with architect DâArcy Jones, we dive deeper into the evolution of his practice over the last 25 years. DâArcy shares how his work has expanded from early residential designs to a diverse mix of renovations and new builds, including international projects in Switzerland and the U.S. He emphasizes the enduring role of renovations in his practice, noting that they often surpass new builds in complexity and value. Rather than viewing renovations as secondary to new construction, he sees them as opportunities to preserve architectural integrity, maintain zoning advantages, and reduce carbon footprints.
DâArcy discusses how his firm has grown organically, with project acquisition driven by word-of-mouth, early publication features, and a design philosophy that responds to the specific needs and personalities of his clients. He reflects on his preference for durable materials like brick and cedar shingles, drawing lessons from older homes that have stood the test of time. His experience designing a home in Switzerland highlights the benefits and challenges of prefabrication, as well as the striking differences in construction culture between North America and Europe.
Sustainability is a recurring theme, and while his firm has completed several net-zero homes, DâArcy acknowledges that sometimes the most environmentally responsible choice is to preserve and adapt existing structures rather than build from scratch. His firmâs approach is rooted in a collaborative, design-driven culture, where hierarchy is minimized and studio members actively engage in idea exchange. He fosters creativity through internal competitions, Friday design discussions, and an emphasis on hands-on problem-solving.
Beyond architecture, DâArcy reveals his deep passion for live music, reading international newspapers, and his background in professional culinary training. He speaks about the value of experiencing music in intimate settings and how his love of discoveryâwhether through music, food, or designâfuels his creative approach. This episode offers a compelling continuation of our deep dive into DâArcy Jones Architects, highlighting the thoughtfulness and adaptability behind his work.
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DâArcy Jones is the founder and principal of DâArcy Jones Architects, a practice celebrated for its inventive, human-centered design and seamless integration of construction know-how with architectural vision. Born in Fort St. John, British Columbia, and raised in Abbotsford, DâArcyâs early fascination with the ever-evolving landscape of his neighborhoodâwhere new houses and makeshift construction sites doubled as playgroundsâlaid the groundwork for his lifelong passion for building. Even as a child, tinkering with toy models and exploring the inner workings of construction sites, he nurtured an insatiable curiosity about how things are made and how they can be improved.
After a formative stint working in constructionâranging from insulating pig barns to learning the ropes on renovation projectsâDâArcy shifted his focus to architecture. He pursued his undergraduate studies in architecture in Winnipeg, where the expansive prairies and innovative spirit of the city profoundly influenced his design sensibilities. Determined to broaden his perspective, he later earned a second bachelorâs degree (by placement) before completing a masterâs program at the Technical University of Nova Scotia. This diverse educational background, steeped in both technical rigor and creative exploration, has been a cornerstone of his professional approach.
DâArcyâs early professional experiences were as varied as they were formative. His initial forays into the field included hands-on work with leading local firmsâsuch as his time with Nigel Baldwinâs practice in Vancouverâwhere he honed his skills in model-making and construction documentation. One of his first breakthrough projects was the design of a family home that not only showcased his technical abilities but also earned recognition in Western Living magazine. This early success set the stage for a practice that would continually embrace challenges, from intimate residential renovations to ambitious cultural and multifamily projects.
Over the course of a career spanning more than two decades, DâArcy Jones Architects has grown from a scrappy startup operating out of a modest office to a well-respected firm that now manages upwards of 20 active projects at any one time. His practice has been lauded with nearly 20 awards on various scales, including recognitions received in the past year, and his work has been featured in numerous media outletsâranging from regional magazines to national television and radio. Through it all, DâArcy has maintained a commitment to design excellence and a philosophy that every building, no matter how modest its beginnings, holds untapped potential waiting to be realized.
Deeply committed to mentoring the next generation and pushing the boundaries of traditional practice, DâArcy continues to explore the interplay between design innovation and practical construction methods. His journeyâfrom a boy fascinated by the evolving skyline of his hometown to a licensed architect steering a dynamic firmâis a testament to his relentless drive, his passion for transformative design, and his belief that architecture is both an art and a craft that shapes the very fabric of our communities.
D'Arcy Jones: www.darcyjones.com
Caplan's Appliances: www.caplans.ca
To connect with Caplan's, email me: [email protected]
Behind the Build (Instagram): www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast
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Adrian Worton is the founder of Daymark Design, an architectural practice dedicated to crafting modern, high-performance homes that connect seamlessly with their surroundings. With 19 years of experience in architecture, Adrian's career began after graduating from Fanshawe Collegeâs Architectural Technology program. He gained early experience at Nicholson Sheffield Architects and later worked on large-scale institutional projects with Perkins and Will in Toronto before founding Daymark Design in 2016.
Adrianâs work reflects a passion for timeless, modern design that integrates natural materials and thoughtful planning. He collaborates closely with clients to create spaces that fit their lives and values, always with an uncompromising desire to deliver his best work. Adrian demands perfectionâor the closest he can get to itâfrom himself and from everyone involved in his projects, ensuring the highest standards are met at every stage.
His extensive knowledge of architectureâlocally, nationally, and abroadâenhances his ability to connect with both clients and industry professionals alike. At the same time, Adrian is an incredible father and husband, demonstrating a commitment to balance that I greatly admire. Over the years, Adrian has also become a close confidante and trusted partner, and I value his thoughtful approach to both his work and his life.
Coincidentally, we share the same birthday, and our first meeting was over lunch on that dayâa fitting start to a collaboration rooted in shared values and respect. Our work together on a project only deepened my appreciation for his relentless commitment to design excellence and his ability to forge meaningful relationships.
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Design Theory is a Toronto-based interior design studio led by Leanne Tammaro and Adolphina Czyrsky, renowned for their exceptional work in transforming private residences and shared condo spaces. With a seamless blend of modern elegance and functional design, the duo creates spaces that balance beauty, practicality, and the unique needs of their clients.
Leanne and Adolphina first worked together at an interior design office before joining forces to establish Design Theory. Their combined expertise spans construction management, space planning, and creative vision, ensuring thoughtful and detail-oriented results. I first connected with them on an inspiring trip curated by Lutron Canada to Lutron's NYC studios.
Design Theoryâs work has been featured in House & Home and Our Homes Magazine and has earned recognition from the Decorators & Designers Association of Canada. Whether revitalizing shared condo spaces or designing bespoke interiors, they deliver inspiring and enduring designs that elevate everyday living.
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Peter Braithwaiteâs architectural journey continues to unfold in fascinating ways, as highlighted in Part Two of our conversation. Picking up where we left off, Peter shared thoughtful reflections on his academic pursuits and the ever-evolving relationship between practice and pedagogy. Having engaged with PhD programs at both Dalhousie and the University of Calgary, Peter explored how advanced education informs his approach to architecture and his potential plans for returning to teaching in the future. His ongoing commitment to knowledge-sharing underscores the depth of his connection to the academic world.
Our conversation turned to the role of place and material in Peterâs designs, particularly how projects interact with their surrounding landscapes. As both a carpenter and architect, Peterâs deep appreciation for wood is evident. This tactile understanding of materials adds a distinct richness to his designs, bridging the gap between conceptual and physical craftsmanship.
Peter also offered insights into the collaborative structure of his practice, highlighting the importance of building a team with diverse values and abilities. For Peter, the blend of different perspectives is key to fostering creativity and innovation. His approach to team-building reflects a commitment to adaptability and inclusivity, ensuring his practice remains dynamic and responsive.
Looking to the future of the profession, Peter discussed the potential for architecture to evolve in ways that promote greater accessibility, collaboration, and the sharing of knowledge. While acknowledging current gaps, he expressed optimism about how architects can shape the field to be more connected and impactful over time. This vision aligns with his dedication to continuous learning and his belief in architecture as a practice that thrives on shared growth.
Through his candid insights, Peter provided a window into the philosophies and practices that define his approach to architecture. His ability to seamlessly integrate academic inquiry, material knowledge, and a commitment to collaboration offers a compelling blueprint for the professionâs future. Part two of this conversation was every bit as engaging as the first, leaving us with an even deeper appreciation for Peterâs thoughtful contributions to the world of design and building.
- Se mer
