Behind the Build

Nadeen Rajani, 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 Stewart Watson 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 Palm Beach and lakefront retreats on Bigwin Island. 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 Bud Hart and Hector Romero 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 two a.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] the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast

Todd Saunders grew up on Newfoundland’s 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, Montréal, 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 Nordås near Bergen; Roxanne Quimby’s 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 isn’t sketching on a mountain trail, you’ll find him teaching at Bergen Arkitekthøgskole, 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/enCaplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/The Doors: https://thedoors4u.com/To connect with our sponsors, email me: [email protected] the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/

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. Kfir’s path into architecture has been anything but linear—rooted 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 Waterloo’s 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 Kilogram’s 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 2015–2016, he launched Kilogram Studio, with early momentum driven by a prolific collaboration with Greenhouse Juice Co.—a partnership that has since yielded more than 20 retail and production projects across Canada.Under Kfir’s leadership, Kilogram has grown into a nimble studio that blends conceptual design with technical execution. The practice is currently engaged in ReHousing, a Neptis Foundation–funded 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.Kfir’s work spans the detailed and the systemic—from rethinking how two materials meet to how entire neighbourhoods could evolve—always 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] the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/

Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, Andrés Muñoz Alarcón is the founder and creative force behind EStudio AMA, a thriving design practice based in Mexico City. A graduate of Universidad Iberoamericana, Andrés built his early foundation with summers spent abroad interning and studying in cities like Los Angeles, New York, Paris, and Chicago—experiences that shaped his global design sensibility and deepened his appreciation for architectural diversity.Before launching EStudio AMA, Andrés 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 precision—launching 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 Guadalajara—designed in partnership with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)—currently 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. Andrés'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 voice—anchored by Mexican roots and international outlook.Sponsors:Lutron: https://www.lutron.com/us/enCaplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/The Doors: https://thedoors4u.com/To connect with our sponsors, email me: [email protected] the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/

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 — 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 ’90s to a construction management firm focused on delivering architecturally challenging & significant homes — 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 that’s shaped Walden’s 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, Bruce’s lens on technology isn’t about flash — it’s about function & clarity.Beyond tech, the episode uncovers Bruce’s 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 Walden’s 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 — 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. It’s 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/enCaplan's Appliances: https://caplans.ca/The Doors: https://thedoors4u.com/To connect with our sponsors, email me: [email protected] the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/

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. Maggie’s work is driven by a commitment to design excellence, collaboration, and community involvement.Amin Ebrahim’s 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 KSA’s 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] the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/

Ben Gaum built his path to architecture from a young age, after a school test in Grade 5 surprisingly and accurately suggested “architect” 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 master’s 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 ownership—leading 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 that’s both efficient and flexible—often 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] the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/

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 University’s architecture program, Frank’s 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 linear—beginning 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 process—collaborating 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 design—where 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] the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/

Building codes are often seen as limitations, but for David Hine of David Hine Engineering Fire and Building Code Consultant, they offer opportunities—if 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 Toronto’s most challenging residential builds, including Iceberg houses with deep basements and structurally ambitious homes.David’s 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 isn’t just about compliance—it’s 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 today’s 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, David’s 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 aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re 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] the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/

In the heart of Canada’s 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 Architecture’s work is informed by the dramatic seasonal swings of the Yukon—five-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.no’s work is also defined by sits cultural sensitivity. Much of their practice involves working with Yukon’s 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 outward—studying 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 approach—one 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] the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/