D’Arcy Jones founded the studio in Vancouver in 1999. Since then, D’Arcy Jones Architects (DJA) has refined an inventive, ever-evolving design process. Over the years, we’ve been recognized for well-crafted projects that are rational, conceptual, and not afraid to experiment with the more artful sides of architecture. Our scale of work has ranged from homes and commercial spaces to arts and cultural projects, both in urban and rural areas. We are interested in projects that challenge us to explore new things or ways of designing at a wide range of budgets.
We are curious about how design can improve and create culture. We focus on making architecture that responds to how people live now, with sensitivity, intention, and boldness. We like to reconsider what is often taken for granted, using what-if thinking as our guiding technique. Our process is all about optimism and carefully questioning how habit, function, construction, beauty, and even chance shape the spaces we make.
Our ideas and projects have been published and received awards in Canada and around the world. Some of our past honours include the Ronald J. Thom Award for Early Design Achievement from the Canada Council for the Arts, the AIBC Emerging Firm Award, and the RAIC Emerging Architectural Practice Award. Our work has also picked up awards like the AFBC Design Excellence Award, AIBC Lieutenant Governor Medals, Canadian Architect Awards, the Vancouver Urban Design Award, and our Pearl Block infill housing received a 2024 Mies Crown Hall Americas Prize for Outstanding Project.
