Akb Architects

Kelly Buffey | Partner, Creative Director Kelly Buffey is the creative force behind the studio's design identity, leading work distinguished by conceptual rigour and a deep attentiveness to the human condition. Her attunement to the sensorial nuances of architecture, on both body and mind, is what sets Akb apart, with work that carries an ineffable quality of elegance and quietude. Kelly leads the studio’s design process, rooted in spatial invention, phenomenological experience, and intimate dialogue with clients. A capacity to listen and uncover what is latent rather than stated allows her to translate complex, often unspoken ambitions into architecture that is both rigorously resolved and genuinely meaningful. With compassion and grace, she guides a dedicated team that is equally committed to the culture of the studio. Kelly holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Toronto, a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Interior Design from Toronto Metropolitan University, and a Bachelor of Arts from Queen's University. She is a registered architect with the Ontario Association of Architects and a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. M Arch, B AA (ID), B A, OAA, FRAIC Portrait by @shlomiamigaphoto

Robert Kastelic | Partner, Technical Director Robert Kastelic brings a deep understanding of, and genuine appreciation for, the craft of construction. His work is defined by an exceptional aptitude for detail, combining pragmatism with innovation and a refined design sensibility. A hallmark of his approach is the reductive use of technology: systems are calibrated to support the architecture rather than compete with it. Equal care is given to ensure that details, interfaces, and intersections recede into quietness. By concealing the complexity of the built assembly, the architecture becomes a calm backdrop against which daily life can fully unfold. Within the studio, Robert leads the team with focus and enthusiasm, driving technical excellence across all aspects of the work. He holds a Bachelor of Environmental Studies and a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Waterloo. He is a registered architect with the Ontario Association of Architects, a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada and an International Associate Member of the American Institute of Architects. B Arch, B ES, OAA, FRAIC, AIA Portrait by @shlomiamigaphoto

Mark Ross | Associate, Project Lead Mark’s work is grounded and restrained. He is drawn to simple forms and natural materials, and to the idea that carefully considered work does not need to announce itself. It is quiet in its making, but has a lasting effect. With the studio since 2019, Mark helps lead the delivery of complex single-family homes and cottages, contributing thoughtful design and leadership across all phases of a project. His interest in architecture extends beyond buildings into the act of making, where furniture becomes a way to explore ideas through a more immediate and tactile process. Mark holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Environmental Design from the University of British Columbia, where he received the Faculty Design Award. B ENDS, M Arch Portrait by @shlomiamigaphoto

Donald Peckover | Associate, Project & Sustainability Lead Donald Peckover has over 18 years of experience working on single-family homes, including off-grid cabins, urban renovations, and vacation retreats. His strong technical background is reflected in his practical eye for detail and a pragmatic sense of design. Drawn to the personal and warm nature of residential architecture, he creates spaces where people feel at home for years to come. Each project reflects his commitment to optimizing health and comfort through natural materials, passive design strategies, and sustainable technologies. Donald holds a Bachelor of Architectural Science from Toronto Metropolitan University and has completed the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada’s Syllabus Program, a nationally recognized path to architectural licensure. Additionally, he has extensive training and certifications from Passive House Canada and the Canada Green Building Council. B ArchSc, LEED AP Portrait by @shlomiamigaphoto

Sacha Milojevic | Project Lead Since completing his Master’s degree with distinction at the University of Auckland in New Zealand, Sacha has focused on integrating beauty, craftsmanship, and function in architecture, with a particular interest in landscape as a defining design element. He brings more than five years of professional experience in residential design, gained in Canada and Portugal, including work with Aires Mateus, and in Auckland with Patterson Associates. A parent of two young daughters, Sacha has also undertaken renovations to both his family home and their cottage in North Kawartha, Ontario. He is in the process of obtaining his license through the Ontario Association of Architects. B Arch, M Arch Portrait by @shlomiamigaphoto

Nicole Chmielinski | Project Lead Nicole Chmielinski trained in Canada and earned her Master of Architecture at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands. She came to Akb with a wide range of international experiences at Heitler-Houstoun Architects in New York and Korteknie Stuhlmacher Architecten in Rotterdam. Her diverse knowledge crosses all design phases and derives from contributing to the design of single-family homes as well as public and commercial buildings. As Project Lead, Nicole is responsible for bringing a project to life, from initial concept to execution and completion. She is currently pursuing licensure with the Ontario Association of Architects. B AS, M Sc Portrait by @shlomiamigaphoto

Nic Puersten | Intermediate Intern Architect & BIM Lead Inspired by the profound impact the built environment has on people’s lives and interactions, Nic earned a Master of Architecture with honours from the University of Waterloo. They are passionate about residential design’s ability to translate ideas into tangible, inhabitable spaces. As the studio’s BIM Lead, Nic oversees the development of digital 3D models, ensuring accuracy and clarity throughout the construction process. Outside the studio, Nic’s creative instincts move between music, painting, jewellery making, and sewing. A quiet but enduring fascination with physics and astronomy continues to shape how they see the world, deepening their curiosity about the underlying systems that inform both nature and design. B AS, M Arch Portrait by @shlomiamigaphoto

Katie Krolak | Intermediate Intern Architect Katie brings a keen sensitivity to how people interact in shared and private spaces, and to how residential architecture can enrich daily life. Prior to joining Akb, she contributed to several prestigious academic and institutional projects across Ontario. She holds a Master of Architecture from McGill University, graduating on the RAIC Honour Roll, and a Bachelor of Architectural Science earned with distinction. At Akb, Katie is also involved in interior design and in the studio’s marketing and communications initiatives. Her interest in architecture was first shaped through movement, as well as a lifelong passion for film and visual arts. As a trained dancer, she has an inherent understanding of the symbiotic relationships between space, motion, and stillness, and continues to draw on this awareness in her approach to architecture. B ArchSc, M Arch Portrait by @shlomiamigaphoto

Christopher Cleland | Intermediate Intern Architect The son of a carpenter, Christopher had an early introduction to the craft of construction and the art of architecture. This foundation provided him with a deep consideration for detail design and constructability; qualities that continue to fuel his curiosity about the architectural process and its complex work flows. From construction through finish and occupancy, he is interested in how trades build, how designers interpret space, and how users ultimately experience space. Christopher completed both his undergraduate and graduate studies at Toronto Metropolitan University. He is currently working toward his OAA licensure. B ArchSc, M Arch Portrait by @shlomiamigaphoto

Kim Grovu | Intermediate Intern Architect Kim’s work is shaped by care, craft, and an enduring interest in the human experience. She holds a Bachelor of Architectural Science (Honours) from Toronto Metropolitan University and a Master of Architectural Science from TU Delft in the Netherlands. Her graduate thesis was pre-selected for the 2025 BK Archiprix and exhibited at TU Delft’s Faculty of Architecture. Her design practice centers on residential spaces as intimate reflections of those who inhabit them, and on the reciprocal exchange through which space absorbs identity and memory. Beyond the studio, Kim is an avid maker, with a growing focus on photography, textile arts and graphic design. She is currently advancing her technical proficiency in 3D modelling and preparing to pursue OAA licensure. B ArchSc, M ScArch Portrait by @shlomiamigaphoto

Laura Vilbiks | Junior Intern Architect Laura brings a strong interest in the relationship between built heritage, cultural identity, and residential design. She holds a Master of Science in Architecture from the Estonian Academy of Arts in Tallinn, where she studied Architecture and Urban Planning with minors in Planning, Heritage and Conservation. Her master’s thesis received a Special Award from the National Heritage Board of Estonia in 2024. Laura’s design approach is in shaping everyday routines and choreographing movement through space. She is particularly inspired by cinematography and the way atmosphere is constructed through sequences and moments. Before joining Akb, Laura gained experience in architecture, interior design and academia while living in Estonia. She is also drawn to furniture design, appreciating the craft of creating objects that are quietly impactful. B ArchSc, M Arch Portrait by @shlomiamigaphoto

Julia Tunney | Managing Director A natural problem solver, Julia plays a vital role in optimizing the atelier’s business operations, streamlining everything from project management and workflow systems to contract negotiations. She brings deep expertise from managing large-scale projects at international design studios, including Yabu Pushelberg. With a Bachelor of Commerce from Queen’s University and over 15 years of experience in the design industry, Julia bridges the worlds of business and creativity with precision and grace. B Comm Portrait by @shlomiamigaphoto