AJ holds an Honours B.A. in History and Art History from Queen’s University and a Masters of Architecture from the University of Toronto, and brings over seven years of experience to the practice. Studying abroad for part of his undergraduate studies solidified his passion for both classical and modern art and architecture. This, combined with his hands-on experience in the construction industry, gives him a unique design sense. To this day, AJ sees the connection between good art and good architecture. In his work, AJ strives to create buildings that elicit a sense of belonging through balance and composition. Having grown up in Waterloo Region, it was always AJ’s intent to return to his hometown and contribute to the development of the region and its surrounding areas. Today, AJ feels fortunate to be part of the Martin Simmons Sweers team on a professional and personal level. His grandfather worked for the firm in the 1950s, and he grew up in a home designed by one of Martin Simmons Sweers’ founding architects.

“It’s pretty rare you have a firm history so entwined with the community’s evolution. When you look at the buildings in the region - from the universities to the performing arts centre to many of the region’s homes and corporate offices - this firm has had a hand in them. And I’m excited to be part of building the community’s future.”