Denver Single-Stair Housing Challenge competition Honorable mention winner - Aaron Paul Whalen

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winner of our "Denver Single-Stair Housing Challenge" competition – Aaron Paul Whalen from Canada!

Aaron Paul Whalen

Please tell us about your company (when it was founded, where it is based, how many employees, etc) Alternatively, if you do not have a company, please give us some insights on your own professional/academia background.

 SNDBOX is an award-winning design studio based in Kelowna, British Columbia. Founded in early 2024 out of a love for infill design, we specialize in innovative and sustainable housing solutions for the growing needs of our community. Our small-scale studio of three is devoted to the realization of beautifully simple, sensitive spaces.

Brief information about the projects that you/your company have been involved with. For instance, what scale have you focused on/preferred, any significant projects where the company/ individuals have been Involved?

SNDBOX is committed to redefining the housing landscape through thoughtful, forward-thinking infill typologies. We were a winning entry in the Kelowna Infill Design Competition in 2021 and have been working diligently with the local municipality on fast-track housing solutions ever since. 

What does architecture mean to you and what is the role of an architect in your society?

 Architecture, to me, is the intersection of creative problem-solving and artistry, shaping the way we live, interact, and experience our surroundings. It’s about more than simply designing buildings—it’s a responsibility—to create spaces that not only serve the present but also contribute to a more resilient and inspiring future.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Architecture competitions are food for creativity. It’s like a playground where I can push boundaries and break a few rules without worrying about permits, budgets, or clients...

What advice would you give to individuals who struggle to decide whether it would be beneficial for them to participate in architecture competitions?

Competitions are a fantastic way to test new skills and step outside of your comfort zone without consequence. They allow you to take risks, experiment with innovative ideas, and challenge yourself creatively, all while gaining valuable feedback that can help refine your approach and enhance your design practice.