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.

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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. 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.

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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 “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.

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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 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.

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To connect with Caplan's Appliances, email me: [email protected]

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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 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]

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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.

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To connect with Caplan's Appliances, email me: [email protected]

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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 name—an abbreviation for "site north office"—reflects 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 master’s 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 firm’s early years were defined by bootstrapping—working 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 Canada’s emerging design talent.

Specializing in resilient, energy-efficient design, s.no architecture embraces the challenges of working in extreme conditions—from limited daylight to harsh winters—creating 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]

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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 client’s 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.

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.

Rick’s path into architecture began at the University of Waterloo, where he earned his degree. During his time there, he participated in the university’s 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.

Rick’s passion for the outdoors didn’t 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 Rick’s 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 studio’s work reflects his commitment to creating spaces that are functional, elegant, and connected to the landscapes around them. Rick’s approach to architecture is deeply rooted in his experiences, both in the field and on the road, where he’s 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/

In this second installment with architect D’Arcy Jones, we dive deeper into the evolution of his practice over the last 25 years. D’Arcy 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.

D’Arcy 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, D’Arcy acknowledges that sometimes the most environmentally responsible choice is to preserve and adapt existing structures rather than build from scratch. His firm’s 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, D’Arcy 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 discovery—whether through music, food, or design—fuels his creative approach. This episode offers a compelling continuation of our deep dive into D’Arcy Jones Architects, highlighting the thoughtfulness and adaptability behind his work.