Glaive Atrift Studio

Our Story, Your Vision

Building spaces that actually matter since day one

Design Process

Who We Really Are

Look, we're not gonna feed you some corporate fluff about synergizing paradigms or whatever. We're a team of architects who genuinely care about making cities better – one building at a time.

Started in Toronto with nothing but some crazy ideas and a shared belief that sustainable design shouldn't look boring. We've been pushing boundaries ever since, working with clients who aren't afraid to think differently.

Every project we take on gets the same treatment – honest conversations, creative problem-solving, and designs that'll still make sense in 50 years. That's just how we roll.

How We Got Here

2018 - The Beginning

Three Friends, One Crazy Dream

Started in a cramped Queen West office, arguing over coffee about how Toronto's skyline could be greener. We took on our first residential project and haven't looked back.

2020 - Growing Pains

First Commercial Project Lands

Pandemic hit but we pivoted fast. Landed a mixed-use development downtown that challenged everything we thought we knew about urban design. Our team doubled in size.

2022 - Recognition Hits

Awards & New Directions

Won our first sustainability award for a net-zero office building. Started consulting on urban planning projects across Ontario. Realized we're actually making a dent.

2025 - Present Day

Still Hungry, Still Learning

Twenty-plus projects under our belt, a stellar team, and we're still as excited about design as day one. Currently working on some projects we can't wait to show you.

What Drives Us

Our philosophy isn't complicated – just honest and tested

Real Talk, Always

We'll tell you if your idea won't work. Not because we're jerks, but because honesty saves everyone time and money. Plus, we usually have a better alternative ready.

Sustainability That Works

Green design shouldn't mean compromise. We've figured out how to make eco-friendly buildings that people actually want to use – and they save you cash long-term too.

People First Design

Buildings are for humans, not Instagram. We design spaces that feel right when you're in them – whether that's a cozy home or a bustling office lobby.

Innovation With Purpose

We love trying new things, but only if they actually improve the outcome. Technology and trends are cool when they serve a real purpose in your project.

Urban Context Matters

Every building sits in a neighbourhood. We design with that in mind – respecting what's there while pushing Toronto's architectural scene forward.

Built to Last

Trends fade. We design buildings that'll age gracefully, adapt to changing needs, and won't look dated in a decade. That's just smart planning.

Meet The Team

The folks behind the blueprints

Sarah Chen

Sarah Chen

Founding Principal & Lead Designer

The visionary who sketches on napkins during lunch and somehow those doodles become award-winning buildings. Been doing this for 15 years and still gets excited about good concrete.

Marcus Thompson

Marcus Thompson

Sustainability Director

Our green guru who proves sustainable design can be stunning. Runs energy models like others play video games. If there's a greener way to do it, Marcus has already thought of it.

Elena Rodriguez

Elena Rodriguez

Senior Architect

The problem-solver who makes impossible sites work. Got a weird lot? She's your person. Trained in Barcelona, worked in Tokyo, now calling Toronto home and loving every challenging project.

David Park

David Park

Visualization Specialist

Makes our ideas look real before breaking ground. His renders have convinced more than one skeptical client. Also knows every 3D software ever made, probably.

Aisha Osman

Aisha Osman

Urban Planning Lead

Thinks in city blocks instead of single buildings. Her background in urban studies means our projects always fit the bigger picture. Toronto-born and passionate about making this city better.

James Wilson

James Wilson

Project Manager

Keeps us all on track and on budget. The guy who turns creative chaos into actual buildings. Former contractor, so he knows what'll actually work in the real world.

Want to Build Something Great?

We're always up for interesting projects and conversations. Whether you've got a full brief or just an idea on a napkin, let's talk.

Let's Chat
Studio Collaboration