About Us - Frostward Architectural Studio

Our Story

Look, we started Frostward back in 2011 because frankly, we were tired of seeing buildings that couldn't handle a proper Canadian winter. You know the type - gorgeous in the brochure, miserable by February.

Our founder, Maria Chen, grew up in Whitehorse and spent way too many winters cursing poorly designed heating systems and ice dam disasters. After working at a couple big-name firms that didn't really get the northern climate thing, she figured it was time to do something different.

Fast forward to now, and we've got a team that's designed everything from Net Zero homes in Yellowknife to commercial spaces in Vancouver that actually stay comfortable year-round. We're not about flashy designs that fall apart when the snow hits - we're about buildings that work with our climate, not against it.

Yeah, sustainable architecture is trendy now, but we've been doing this since before it was cool. Because up here, you don't really have a choice - efficiency isn't a buzzword, it's survival.

What Drives Us

Climate-Smart Design

We've learned the hard way that northern architecture isn't just regular architecture with extra insulation. There's snow load, permafrost, extreme temperature swings... the list goes on. Every project we take on starts with understanding the specific climate challenges of that location.

Real Sustainability

We're not talking about slapping some solar panels on the roof and calling it a day. True sustainability means buildings that'll last 100+ years, use minimal energy, and actually make sense for the people living or working in them. Less waste, more thinking.

Honest Communication

Architecture doesn't need to be mysterious. We'll tell you straight up what's realistic, what'll cost extra, and when your Pinterest inspiration won't work in a place where it snows 8 months a year. No jargon, no BS.

Meet the Team

Maria Chen

Founder & Principal Architect

Started this whole thing. Still gets excited about thermal bridging solutions, which tells you everything you need to know.

Erik Johansson

Senior Architect

Moved here from Sweden thinking Canadian winters would be similar. They're not, but he adapted. Specializes in passive house design.

Tanya Blackwater

Heritage & Sustainability Lead

Grew up in Nunavut. Knows more about traditional building techniques and modern integration than anyone we've met.

David Kim

Technical Director

The guy who runs all the energy models and actually reads building code updates for fun. We don't understand him, but we need him.

Sophie Leclerc

Project Architect

Montreal-trained, survived her first Calgary winter and decided she was tough enough for this. Handles most of our commercial projects.

James Wright

Architectural Designer

Fresh out of UBC but already obsessed with building envelope details. Makes incredible models that actually help clients understand the designs.

Rachel Foster

Sustainability Consultant

Used to work in environmental science before switching to architecture. Keeps us honest about our green building claims.

Michael Santos

Project Manager

Keeps everything running on schedule, which is harder than it sounds when you're waiting for permits and dealing with supply chain issues.

Think We Might Be a Good Fit?

Whether you're planning a new build or trying to fix an existing space that just doesn't work in winter, let's talk. We've probably seen whatever problem you're dealing with before.

Get in Touch