Practice

People

A small, deliberate team of designers, drafters and builders.

Steve Charles

Principal + Architectural Lead

Steve earned a Bachelor of Architectural Studies from Carleton University and an Architectural Technology diploma from Fanshawe College, all while pursuing a professional baseball career as part of the Toronto Blue Jays farm system. Balancing his education with professional baseball required a high level of discipline and focus, qualities that have stayed with him throughout his 25+ years in architectural design. Steve’s experience spans residential, multi-residential, commercial, industrial and mixed-use projects. Steve has earned BCIN qualifications in Small and Large Buildings, an achievement that has greatly expanded his technical expertise. He also values ongoing professional development and stays current with modern construction practices and building science. This breadth of knowledge informs Steve’s technical judgement, allowing him to recommend design and construction approaches that respond to the project goals and budget. Steve’s architectural approach favours thoughtful, functional solutions tailored to each project, with particular attention to integrating modern structures seamlessly into their natural surroundings. Steve’s focus remains constant: a successful project and a genuinely happy client.

Nicole Monich

Interior Design Lead

With an honours diploma in Interior Design from Georgian College and nearly three decades in the design industry, Nicole’s experience spans interior design, modular construction, contract furniture and project coordination across commercial, residential and institutional projects. Nicole is passionate about people and space, an interest which ultimately led her to explore human-centred programming and gain a deep understanding of the intersection between psychology and interior design. This has shaped her approach to design, blending functional planning with active listening and prioritizing discovery over assumptions. The goal is to ensure each space truly supports the way its users live and work. Her aesthetic sensibility embraces rich materiality, thoughtful detailing and timeless design, looking beyond trends to create spaces that feel layered and considered. Whether designing a workplace, a home or a multi-residential development, Nicole brings an inquisitive nature and thoughtful creativity to each project, creating spaces that are aligned with each client's personal or business goals.

Greg McManus

Construction Lead

With more than 25 years of construction experience under his belt, Greg has managed residential and commercial projects across a wide range of scales and complexities. Greg’s forward-thinking approach is rooted in a strong technical understanding of advanced construction methods and sustainable technology. His expertise brings a construction lens to the design process, helping the team consider constructability, cost and execution as the design develops. This early input can help identify potential challenges and opportunities before construction begins. Greg’s approachable manner and calm, steady presence help make the construction experience feel reassuring, collaborative and easy to navigate. Throughout construction, he maintains clear communication between clients, the design team and trades, ensuring questions, changes and site conditions are addressed as the work progresses. His hands-on management keeps the project moving forward with close attention to schedule, budget and quality, resulting in a successful outcome.