Episodes
-
Hugh Randolph, founder and principal of Hugh Jefferson Randolph Architects, has had a lifelong passion for architecture, with his calling to design buildings ignited at the young age of seven. A native of New Orleans, Hughâs journey began with a rich cultural backdrop that nurtured his creative inclinations. He started his architectural career in Washington, D.C., before moving to Austin, Texas, in 1991 to study under the celebrated architect and educator Charles Moore. This transformative period shaped his approach to design, instilling a blend of creativity, respect for context, and commitment to sustainability.
Hughâs practice focuses on residential architecture, spanning diverse styles and scales. His designs harmonize functionality with a deep understanding of his clientsâ needs, resulting in spaces that inspire and endure. Beyond architecture, Hugh embraces life as a dedicated father to his two sons, a fan of road trips, an enthusiast for catchy pop music, and a passionate renovator of his 1939 ranch-style house.
One of Hughâs most notable works is the Theresa Passive House, a 2,100-square-foot renovation and addition that achieves remarkable energy efficiency, using 75% less energy than typical new homes. Designed to Passive House Institute U.S. (Phius) standards, the project incorporates photovoltaic panels and battery backup to function as an independent energy hub during power outages. The house has earned acclaim for its commitment to sustainability, receiving multiple awards for excellence in design and energy performance.
Hugh Randolphâs career is defined by his ability to honor tradition while embracing progress, creating spaces that are as sustainable as they are beautiful. His work continues to inspire, setting a benchmark for future-forward residential design.
-
This week, we're featuring Denegri Bessai Studio.
Founded by partners Maria Denegri and Tom Bessai, who balance a shared life in architecture with teaching and family.
Maria, who studied at UPC Barcelona and UBC (MArch, BArch, BA), brings extensive experience managing complex residential and retail projects, coordinating teams to ensure designs stay on time and on budget. Her client-focused approach keeps every project grounded in the client's unique needs.
Tom, a graduate of UCLA, UBC, and U. Alberta (MArch, BArch, BA), leads the studioâs prototyping and tech-driven explorations. His work bridges cutting-edge design with practical buildability, expanding what's possible in architecture.
Together, Maria and Tom deliver thoughtful, boundary-pushing work, inspiring both their clients and their students across Ontario.
-
Missing episodes?
-
Elsa Lam is the editor-in-chief of Canadian Architect, dedicated to elevating architectural practices across Canada.
With a background in architecture from the University of Waterloo, a masterâs in Architectural History and Theory from McGill, and a PhD in Architectural History from Columbia University, Elsa brings both depth and insight to her role.
At Canadian Architect, Elsa curates and leads the magazineâs content, commissioning and writing articles, moderating events, and overseeing an annual awards program. Her advocacy and voice have made her a respected figure in the Canadian architecture community.
Tune in to this weekâs episode of Behind the Build with the remarkable Elsa Lam.
-
This week, weâre thrilled to feature Beth Wassermuhl, a second-generation architect whose practice, StudioWI, has been making waves. Bethâs unique style merges modern and contemporary design with just a touch of old-world charm, drawing an eclectic and dedicated clientele.
Growing up in the field, Beth didnât just learn about architecture; she lived itâjoining her father on projects and gaining firsthand insight into the realities of construction. This early exposure developed her sharp sense of feasibility and buildability, skills she now brings to every project.
Bethâs true passion lies in interiors, where she uses color and both natural and artificial light to craft distinct moods that reflect each client's vision while respecting the character of established neighborhoods. Join us as we uncover more about Beth's joyful approach to design and the work that continues to shape her success.
-
Heather Dubbeldam is the founder and principal of Dubbeldam Architecture + Design, a practice known for its focus on contemporary and modern architecture and interior design. Coming from a family of architectsâher father, grandfather, and great-grandfather all practiced architectureâHeather grew up immersed in the world of design. At 16, she had a pivotal conversation about her future in architecture, solidifying her path in the field. Her mother, who studied landscape architecture while Heather was in school, also influenced Heather's appreciation for outdoor spaces.
Dubbeldam Architecture + Design has been operating for over 20 years, offering a blend of thoughtful design and forward-thinking architectural solutions.
Given all the work both for clients and the community at large, among many of the criteria, Dubbeldam Architecture + Design won the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada's Practice of the Year for 2024.
Heather has a passion for supporting small and emerging practices through programs like "20 & Change," which acknowledges the challenges of running a smaller firm and celebrates promising architects with up to 10 years of experience. Dubbeldamâs involvement in the program is rooted in her own early experiences as an emerging practice, with a focus on fostering change in the industry. Heather is also highly connected and well-respected within the architecture community, both locally, nationally, and abroad.
Heather is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in architecture. As Chair of BEAT (Building Equality in Architecture Toronto), she actively works to increase women's representation and promote diversity in the field. She is an ambassador of what it means to be an architect and the impact thereof, frequently speaking at conferences, specialized programs, and academic institutions worldwide on topics like density, inclusion, and advocacy. Heatherâs community involvement extends to organizing "Parking Day" in Toronto, a global movement that transforms parking spaces into public spaces for a weekend. This initiative, now a granting program, raises awareness about the importance of public spaces, and Heather's dedication often sees her working on these projects during evenings and weekends, reflecting her commitment to the industry and the community.
Enjoy!
-
Brooke Guzar is a trailblazer as the first-ever CEO of Blackwell Structural Engineersâa significant achievement, especially considering she was only one year old when the company was founded. Her passion for structural engineering took root during a family dinner in her youth, and since then, it became her dream to work at Blackwell.
Fast forward, and Brooke is now steering the company toward growth, equality, and education. Having spent years with the firm, she eagerly seized the opportunity to step into the CEO role when it arose. Brookeâs love for architecture and design fuels her drive to help others reach their potential.
Beyond the boardroom, Brookeâs adventurous side shines through. A fan of motorcycling and exploration, her zest for life reflects both in her work and play. Dive into this episode to uncover the many layers of Brooke Guzar, an inspiring and well-spoken leader.
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/
-
Chantal Philippe is the founder and principal of NuNu Interior Design, based in Toronto, Ontario. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in construction, Chantal was immersed in the industry from an early age. Over time, her passion for interior design blossomed, leading her to land a pivotal role at a high-end design firm in Toronto.
The invaluable experience she gained there set the stage for her next big stepâpartnering in her first successful practice. With growing confidence, Chantal eventually branched out on her own, launching her independent firm, NuNu Interior Design.
But she didnât stop there. Recently, Chantal acquired one of Canadaâs top ICF companies, pushing industry boundaries with a quiet tenacity that belies her kindness and determination.
In this episode of Behind the Build, we dive into Chantalâs inspiring journeyâfrom her early days in construction to leading the way in sustainable building practices.
Follow us on Instagram: @behind_the_build_podcast.
-
Naama Blonder is the mastermind behind Smart Density, an architecture practice in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. After moving to Toronto from Israel, she acquired the necessary certifications to start her practice, aiming to bring density to the city. Naama not only holds her architecture degree, but also is a certified urban planner.
Combining both professions, she has become a largely vocal and to some, controversial advocate for density along transit lines, creating more opportunity for city growth than a single family home can provide to the community.
Her eagerness and disposition lend themselves to a highly engaging discussion throughout our time together.
Worth noting is that the audio on my side was not great, but the conversation was so meaningful and Naama's audio was so clear, it was totally worth sharing.
Enjoy this installment of Behind the Build with Naama Blonder of Smart Density.
-
Paul Raff is the founder of Paul Raff Studio, an architectural practice that seamlessly integrates interior and landscape design. Before establishing his studio, Paul practiced as an artist and worked for several international firms, contributing to elegant and thoughtful designs across the globe after graduating from the University of Waterloo with degrees in Architecture and Environmental Studies.
Drawing upon his diverse experiences and global insights, Paul founded his practice in the early 2000s, officially launching Paul Raff Studio in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. In the beginning, Paul admits to having started without clients or projects. Yet, through perseverance, he secured his first commission: a garden pavilion.
This initial project gave him the confidence to sculpt his architectural vision for clients who appreciate the art of architecture. His work soon began to focus on Passive House principles, non-toxic living, ecological design, and healthy environments. This led to Cascade House, his first ground-up project, which integrated solar technology and embraced Passive House standards.
Since then, Paulâs career has been nothing short of remarkable. His unique integration of color, light, materials, and even smell, along with his commitment to high-quality environments, sets him apart. I would even call him a modern-day renaissance man.
Enjoy this special episode with my guest, Paul Raff.
-
Cathy Garrido is the co-founder of Altius Architecture, recently (since recording) re-named as Sustain Design Architects Inc., alongside fellow Waterloo grad Graham Smith. While there were four partners initially, Cathy and Graham are the two remaining.
Cathy took to architecture as a profession, in some ways, as a part of a destined path.
With building in her blood, both her father and grandfather being builders, she had always been around construction. That formalized into a pathway leading her to study Architecture at University of Waterloo, in Waterloo, Canada - also, her hometown.
With a keen interest in forward thinking when it comes to architecture, she has acquired LEED accreditation and Passive House Canada.
Find out how the practice has right-sized over the years and how theyâve established themselves as one of the long-standing and highly reputable practices in the city both in residential, commercial, prefab and moreâŠ
-
Born on the outskirts of Edinburgh in Scotland, Gillian Gillies found her love for design. As she began her career, she was invited onto a trip where she met her lifelong partner and husband, Dean.
When she eventually moved to Toronto, she ultimately started Gillian Gillies Interiors. Now, 20 years into the international award-winning practice, she has not only an incredibly successful interior design practice, that not only works in single-family residential construction, and multi-residential projects, but also an entire collection of products that she has created and designed.
Her business has flourished as a result of satisfying clients and having them bring her back into design for their next project, be it the next new home or reno, or a vacation home. She has a motto in her design for "frictionless living."
Gillian's team is fully committed to each other, too. Find out what makes her small team so special by listening to this week's edition of Behind the Build.
-
Kelly Buffey and Robert Kastelic founded Atelier Kastelic Buffey (AKB) in 2004.
Celebrating their 20 year mark, at what has become one of the more celebrated studios in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, AKB has lamented themselves as a highly sought after modern architecture and interior design practice.
Having received international awards for their work, Kelly and Robert both have overcome intense challenges in life, and continue to push forward with a charisma that is so indelible and infectious, you simply want to learn more and more about them and their practice.
Kelly has a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Interior Design from Ryerson (Toronto Metropolitan University), a Bachelor of Arts degree from Queen's University and a Master in Architecture from University of Toronto. She runs the creative vision for the studio.
Robert has a degree in the Bachelor of Environmental Studies and Bachelor of Architecture from Waterloo. He is the technical lead within the studio.
What makes AKB incredibly special is that it's a family run business. Robert and Kelly have been madly in love with each other since working together at KPMB in their youth.
Kelly always wanted to pursue a career in architecture, from her time in high school to university. Her tactile and practical degree at Ryerson really set her on her path, connecting her to sculpting of space.
Robert filled out a form in high school when asked what he wanted to be, so he inserted: actor, engineer and architect. Since inserting that answer, he has gone on to become an architect, the technical director at AKB, and most recently, an actor. Robert is the face for Parkinsonâs Canada in an ad with the slogan, âItâs not Parkinsonâs. Itâs Swagger.â
With a high value on social equity, they have always put their effort into ensuring the staff are looked after, with a health plan in place once they brought on their first staff member decades ago, to buying, designing and working out of their new office. Human connectivity matters to Rob and Kelly. They don't call what they design residences or houses, they call it "home."
Find out more about this softly-spoken, powerhouse couple running AKB on this weekâs installment of Behind the Build.
Parkinsonâs Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhDgQLw_RBc
-
Michael Amantea started his practice in Toronto, Ontario, Canada in 2012. His family was instrumental leading him on his path into architecture. His father was a talented artist, and his mother taught him to value himself, while his grandfather was an iron-worker, working on the installation of the CN Tower, including its very challenging top assembly.
A graduate of University of Torontoâs John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design five year program. Throughout his tenure at U of T, he acquired summer jobs working at Montgomery & Sisam, Architects Alliance (formerly Wallman Clewes Bergman Architects & van Nostrand DiCastri Architects), as an electrical apprentice and then ultimately, in his fifth year, working as a Teaching Assistant (TA) to David Pontarini.
It was during his time as a TA that he was offered a position to work for David at Hariri Pontarini. He then made his way to Ian McDonaldâs practice, Ian McDonald Architect. During his time there, he worked on all that he loved, including architecture, interiors and landscape design.
Since being on his own, he has had incredible success. His early projects, including a pool pavilion went on to win awards in multiple publications and be internationally recognized. With a small team of four, including himself, Michael is now working on truly remarkable projects. From sprawling rural properties to dense infill, single family homes, his keen interest in modern architecture knows no bounds.
Find out more about his mighty practice, including his loyal staff that are so connected to the work that Michael actually calls Amantea Architects, ours and not mine, by listening to this weekâs insightful installment of Behind the Build.
-
Jeffrey Douglas is the founder and sole principal of Douglas Design Studio, an interior design studio based out of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Don't think that just because Jeffrey's practice is based out of Toronto, that he isn't internationally renowned for his work, because he has won many international design awards, as well as nationally, in Canada.
Jeffrey began sketching space when he was 6-7 years old and followed his path of design through teenage-hood and into university, where he landed his first summer job in design.
He began his professional career working for Brian Gluckstein, where he gained a great deal of experience before starting his own practice in 1995. The first studio Jeffrey worked out of was in a "loft" immersed with artists on different levels of the building, including some highly reputable artists, including the late Lynn Donoghue.
The practice moved from the loft space in Roncesvalles to Cabbagetown, where it's been for the last 20 years. With a staff that started at two to three people and as many as 12, he's found that his sweet spot is 10 staff. He leans in heavy on his team and they are committed to delivering.
He utilizes his ability to extract complex problems that clientele are looking to solve by having them use adjectives to describe what theyâre looking for, without using words like âfunctionalâ - because who doesnât want to have functional space?!
And, that sketching that started at 6-7 year old, continues today as an integral part of his design practice.
Find out more about his overcoming being bullied as a child and teen to becoming one of the more highly reputable and prestigious interior designers in Canada, and his unique interest in writing, by listening to this weekâs installment of Behind the Build.
-
Lucas Maino Fernandez founded his practice, Lucas Maino Fernandez Arquitectos, with a focus on modern architecture to be designed and built south of his home town of Santiago, Chile. The majority of his work can be found more or less at the end of the inhabitable world, a few thousand kilometres north of Patagonia.
His designs are purposeful in that the material utilized is largely found locally, given the remote locations of the built structures. By working with wood products, Lucas has had to become very creative in his design efforts to promote unique experiences with the same material. The results are integrated screens, that in some scenarios, open with a hinge, while in others, roll on a track, providing shade and cooling in extreme sun conditions.
His demeanor and enthusiasm for architecture is prevalent throughout the discussion we had and his career path is only just getting started. He is most certainly one of the upcoming architects to rise out of Chile. Find out more about his 10-year-old budding practice on this week' installment of Behind the Build.
-
On this engaging episode, Jennifer Kudlats, one of the principals and founders of Studio for Architecture and Collaboration, or StudioAC, opens up about her path to creating the practice with business partner, Andrew Hill.
After graduating from Dalhousie University, in Nova Scotia, Canada, and completing her Masters in NYC, she worked at KPMB in Toronto, where she honed in on her craft and first met Andrew.
Having partnered on projects at work, the opportunity presented itself to work on some small projects outside of the practice, for family and friends. As the opportunities required more time and focus, Jen and Andrew made the leap. Since the inception of the practice, they have worked on residential, mid-rise, and commercial projects, and they were awarded the 2023 Architecture Practice of the Year with DesignLines.
With a focus on making an impact on the lived-in experience for their clientele by utilizing materials that are economical from a form and function standpoint, but also a financial standpoint, the practice mainly focuses on modern architecture.
Find out about stepping in concrete, working on their first project with an incredibly tight budget, and establishing themselves as one of the most respected architecture practices in Toronto by listening to this week's episode of Behind the Build with Jennifer Kudlats of StudioAC.
Enjoy!
-
Michael Taylor founded Taylor Smyth Architects with business partner Robert Smyth, based out of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, in 2000.
Since the creation of the practice, Taylor Smyth has designed in residential, commercial, educational and community based architecture. The majority of the practice's work is focused on contemporary architecture, blending into modern architecture. Having grown up in Chicago and then moving to England, he had the privilege of traveling all across Europe in high school.
Originally thinking he would become an archeologist, he determined that instead of digging up the old, he wanted to uncover the new, and that led him to study architecture back in Chicago.
Listen to this week's episode, hearing about Michael's interesting path in architecture, starting with a discovery course in Cambridge, at Harvard University.
-
Nathan Buhler is the founder and principal of BLDG Workshop, a modern architectural design practice operating out of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. With a highly modest disposition, Nathan has been creating some truly beautiful homes throughout Toronto and beyond.
All this came after Bible School and acting as a missionary overseas. He went back to school and found a way to give his creativity an outlet. After completing his course at Sheridan, he began his career, which ultimately led him to create BLDG Workshop in 2011.
Nathan is the kind of architectural designer you feel like you've known your whole life after you have your first talk with him. Through his modern designs, he puts a lens on the experience of creating a blend between the indoors and outdoors, noticeable as you look at his portfolio of work and how the windows and doors align with the design.
His work incorporates methodically placed screening, utilizing metals and wood products. He has experienced growth, a decline and a failed acquisition, yet through it all, he has never missed out on opportunities to see his gain more momentum in landing incredible projects in really special landscapes.
Find out more about his practice on this week's episode of Behind the Build.
-
Brenda Izen is the founder and principal of Izen Architecture, a powerful all-female practice focused on modern architecture, based out of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The practice started in 2015 and has since evolved into a well-established luxury architecture and interior design practice with projects from Prince Edward County, to Toronto and beyond, including a rather special project in Costa Rica.
Brenda is meticulously focused on the operation of her business, with thought and diligence put into every hire, every client, design and spec, down to her well-crafted emails.
Her team focuses heavily on collaboration. The practice's attention to detail lends itself to some incredible projects.
Find out more about Brenda, her team, the operation and what her life is like outside of her business on this great episode with my friend, Brenda Izen.
-
Richard Wengle has been practicing architecture since the 1980s, knowing he was going to become an architect in high school. He has since never deviated from his path, lamenting himself as one of the most established residential and mid-rise, multi-residential architects in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
His projects and clients range from Toronto, to the Caribbean, Europe and beyond. He focuses on all styles of architecture, and architecture alone. Richard is adamant about tactile feel of the components associated with his design and is vehemently drawn to drawing on paper, with a pen.
His welcoming demeanor lends itself to a plethora of projects that his staff have the ability to design, develop and realize throughout his involvement in construction.
With decades of experience, there's lots to hear in this week's discussion.
- Show more
