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Aaron
Whalen
Architectural Designer
Studio (16-1546) & SNDBOX

Area of Expertise

Design Development
Development Permit + Building Permit
Accessory Dwelling Units

Region

British Columbia

Aaron Whalen is an innovative architect with over a decade of experience specializing in housing design and architecture. After earning his degree from Toronto Metropolitan University Aaron began designing custom homes in the Muskoka region before moving to British Columbia, where he contributed his expertise to Dialog Design and Bluegreen Architecture. In 2023, he founded his own studio, SNDBOX, where he focuses on creating innovative and affordable housing solutions tailored to the Okanagan community.

Through his career, Aaron has embraced the importance of adaptability and responsiveness in creative work. He believes exceptional architecture emerges from thoughtful questioning, dedication, and the willingness to discover unexpected solutions. As the founder of SNDBOX, Aaron brings this mindset to life by crafting designs that balance innovation with practicality.

Outside of his professional work, Aaron is passionate about his personal hobbies, such as roasting coffee in his shed and exploring the backcountry trail. His dedication to his craft and community shines through in every project, as he continues to inspire and deliver meaningful housing solutions.

Pick this person if you want to:

  • Better understand the design development and approvals process
  • Brainstorm ideas for what your site can accommodate    
  • Review preliminary design plans    
  • Review site or policy constraints and discuss potential design solutions

This expert is right for you if you are looking for:

  • Site Evaluation
  • Planning Policy
  • Zoning and Rezoning Applications
  • Regulatory Approvals
  • Site Layout Design
  • Sustainability and Innovation
  • Optimizing Building