Behind the Build

• Behind the Build: Rick Galezowski - Great Lake Studio

  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] the Build on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behind_the_build_podcast/

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• Behind the Build: D'Arcy Jones - D'Arcy Jones Architects Pt.2

  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.

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• Behind the Build: D'Arcy Jones - D'Arcy Jones Architects Pt.1

  D’Arcy Jones is the founder and principal of D’Arcy 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, D’Arcy’s early fascination with the ever-evolving landscape of his neighborhood—where new houses and makeshift construction sites doubled as playgrounds—laid 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 construction—ranging from insulating pig barns to learning the ropes on renovation projects—D’Arcy 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 bachelor’s degree (by placement) before completing a master’s 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. D’Arcy’s early professional experiences were as varied as they were formative. His initial forays into the field included hands-on work with leading local firms—such as his time with Nigel Baldwin’s practice in Vancouver—where 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, D’Arcy 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 outlets—ranging from regional magazines to national television and radio. Through it all, D’Arcy 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, D’Arcy continues to explore the interplay between design innovation and practical construction methods. His journey—from a boy fascinated by the evolving skyline of his hometown to a licensed architect steering a dynamic firm—is 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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• Behind the Build: Adrian Worton - Daymark Design

  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 College’s 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. Adrian’s 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 perfection—or the closest he can get to it—from himself and from everyone involved in his projects, ensuring the highest standards are met at every stage. His extensive knowledge of architecture—locally, nationally, and abroad—enhances 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 day—a 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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• Behind the Build: Leanne Tammaro & Adolphina Czyrsky - Design Theory

  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 Theory’s 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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