ABOUT STUDIO JCI

At Studio JCI, we provide creative solutions to design challenges and add value throughout the building process to establish elevated architecture for all. Our team of expert problem solvers takes a process-oriented approach to design and project execution, aiming to pave a smooth path for our clients to navigate the regulatory and planning processes through to project close out. Our work is the culmination of intensive study, from aesthetic concept and market feasibility through to functional programming and optimal building performance.

Founded in 2007 by architects Jaegap and Sue Jean Chung, our innovative and multidisciplinary practice offers thoughtful solutions to individual and community needs. We believe architects add value to society, not just sites, and our mission is to further evolve this role by producing contextually sensitive work. We approach every project with a macroscopic perspective, considering the client, their needs, their business, the City, its municipal approval process, policy, and constructability, and we thoroughly explore regional identity and vernacular technique first before dialing into specifics. We prioritize collaboration and share our learnings with our clients every step of the way.

Based in Toronto, our studio’s portfolio is rich with public and commercial projects, as well as all scales of residential structures. Whether the project is low-, mid-, or high-rise, we are committed to finding solutions that address the most significant design challenges while also uncovering opportunities in undervalued spaces.

We are particularly passionate about sustainability and sensitively densifying neighborhoods. In 2019, the Ontario Association of Architects awarded Studio JCI for its “Multi-Tach: Addressing Housing Infrastructure” proposal. In it, we acknowledged the City’s need for more affordable housing and created residential models that provide resource and accommodation sharing and bring multi-generational necessities into Toronto’s current development plans. Since then, we have shared our insights with the City and the public through roundtable discussions, speaking engagements, and our own JCI Learns workshops. We are invested in information sharing and quality of life.

OUR TEAM

At Studio JCI, we hold macroscopic thinking, striving for excellence, accountability and reliability, and progressive improvement as our core values. Our culture is built upon diversity, equity, and inclusion. We treasure the background, experience, and perspective of each team member and foster an accepting work environment where all ideas and viewpoints are valued. Our team comprises over 30 individuals who are encouraged to express themselves freely. We are an equal opportunity employer, and we engage personnel without regard to race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, language, citizenship, creed, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, physical and/or mental handicap, or financial ability. We welcome every new addition to our team with empathy and interest, ensuring a seamless transition into our culture, with the goal of creating long-lasting colleague and career relationships.

OUR MISSION

At Studio JCI, we are committed to:

  • Improving the way people live by addressing housing at all scales, bettering the quality of living space, understanding housing as a right, and bringing meaningful change to the way cities are designed.

  • Developing a future generation of problem solvers by effectively solving problems at a macro and micro level, from city planning to the nuts and bolts of building design and detailing, understanding the multidisciplinary approach required to affect problem-solving, communicating that architecture is a tool we can use to solve problems, and promoting intentional mentoring.

  • Evolving the way architects add value by taking a macroscopic, multi-disciplinary approach, addressing big picture issues which requires collaboration with clients and stakeholders to effectively make change, and navigating clients through all phases and processes with proven leadership.

OUR CORE VALUES

Striving for Excellence

  • We are committed to excellence and deliver our best work in every project at every phase, demonstrating our dedication to professionalism and showcasing our capabilities.

  • We continuously refine and improve our processes to ensure that we stand out among our competitors and maintain our position as leaders in the industry.

  • We leverage our expertise and strive for flow to consistently maintain rigorous standards for all our projects, no matter their size or complexity.

Macroscopic Thinking

  • We are strategic problem solvers who understand the complexity of projects and develop innovative solutions that go beyond traditional architecture.

  • We think outside the box, pushing the boundaries of what is expected in the industry and stretching our skills to become leaders in our field.

  • We prioritize collaboration with our clients and partners to ensure that our ideas form the foundation for successful projects that have a positive impact beyond architecture.

Progressive Improvement

  • We continuously refine and grow with a growth mindset, fostering a culture of innovation that challenges the status quo and seeks to improve established ways of doing things.

  • We value collective learning and growth, leveraging our abilities and experiences through mentorship, teaching, and exchange to continuously improve and evolve.

  • We foster a collaborative environment where constructive questioning, speaking up, and challenging ourselves, our work, and our colleagues leads to meaningful discussions and innovative solutions.

Accountability and Reliability

  • We prioritize accountability by taking ownership of our work and decisions, regardless of their outcome, to maintain the trust and respect of our clients and team.

  • We foster a culture of reliability by prioritizing the well-being of those around us and recognizing the value and uniqueness of individual aspirations and contributions.

  • We demonstrate our commitment to accountability and reliability by celebrating our diversity, investing in each other, and acting with empathy as one team, knowing that our success is dependent on the success of every member.