About our firm · Est. 1928
A legacy of design excellence.
Founded in 1928, ARC28 is among Canada's longest-standing architectural practices, bringing nearly a century of experience to thoughtful architecture and interior design.
Built on a Legacy of Impact
For nearly a century, ARC28 has helped shape communities through architecture and interior design that puts people first. We create environments that inspire learning, support wellness, foster connection, and strengthen the places where life unfolds.
From community facilities and healthcare environments to educational, residential, and cultural spaces, our work reflects a commitment to thoughtful design, technical excellence, and enduring quality.
Founded in Alberta and growing beyond it, ARC28 brings decades of insight together with a forward-looking approach to design. We connect with clients, listen carefully, collaborate with our partners, and create meaningful places that serve communities today and remain relevant for generations to come.
Our Mission
To deliver expert and responsible outcomes that demonstrate our skill and integrity through a considered process and trusted partnerships.
Our Vision
To create inspired design with integrity, through collaboration, that supports and elevates the human condition.
Our values
CURIOSITY
We believe the best ideas begin with curiosity.
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We explore possibilities, ask thoughtful questions, and remain open to new ideas. Curiosity drives us to understand the people, places, and aspirations behind every project. By listening, learning, and challenging assumptions, we uncover opportunities to create thoughtful solutions that respond to today's needs while anticipating tomorrow's possibilities.
EXPERIENCE
We value experience, and never stop learning.
Nearly a century of practice has shaped our understanding of how great projects come together. Our architects, interior designers, and technologists combine technical expertise, practical insight, and a commitment to continuous learning, bringing confidence, creativity, and proven knowledge to every stage of the design process.
CONNECTION
We believe the best work is created together.
Relationships are at the heart of everything we do. We believe the best outcomes are achieved through collaboration, trust, and open dialogue. By working closely with clients, consultants, stakeholders, and communities, we create places that reflect shared goals, strengthen connections, and support the people
who use them.
ENDURING IMPACT
We believe good design should make a lasting impact.
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We design with the future in mind. Guided by a long-term perspective, we create places that are meaningful, resilient, and lasting. From renovations to complex new facilities, our work seeks to enrich the lives of others and the communities where they live, support evolving needs, and deliver value for generations to come.
Here's where we can help.
From the first feasibility sketch to the last chair delivered on site, one team stays with the project — no handoffs between disciplines.
01
Facility Planning & Functional Programming
Helping clients define operational needs, space requirements, and long-term facility strategies.
02
Shareholder Engagement & User-Centered Design
Facilitating conversations that turn shareholder input into practical design solutions.
03
Interior Design & Experience Design
Creating functional, durable, and inspiring environments that support learning, healing, work, and community.
04
Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment (FF&E)
Selection, specification, procurement support, and furniture standards development.
05
Accessibility, Wayfinding & Inclusive Design
Creating environments that are intuitive, welcoming, and accessible to all users.
06
Facility Renewal & Modernization
Re-imagining existing facilities to improve performance, extend life, and support changing needs.
07
Feasibility & Regulatory Studies
Helping clients understand project opportunities, constraints, approvals, and regulatory requirements before investing in design and construction.
2023
Prairie Wood Design Awards
2023
Recreational Award
Waterton Lakes National Park Visitor Centre
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Association for Learning Environments (AB Chapter)
2022
2022 Award of Merit
Tilly K-9 School Replacement, Grasslands Public School
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Award Magazine
2021
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Dr. Robert Plaxton Elementary School, Lethbridge School Division
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Association for Learning Environments
2020
Outstanding Design for Modernization, Award of Merit, Alberta Chapter
Magrath School Modernization
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Association for Learning Environments
2019
Outstanding Design for Modernization, Alberta Chapter
Medicine Hat High School Modernization
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Lethbridge Construction Association Magazine
2019
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Senator Joyce Fairbairn Middle School profile
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Article: A Place to Collaborate
Lethbridge Construction Association Magazine
2019
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FWBA Architects' 90th-anniversary profile
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Article: Building on a Legacy in Lethbridge
Architectural Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada
2019
Design Innovation Award Winner, Southern Alberta Chapter
Magrath School Modernization
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Category: Commercial Millwork
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Architectural Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada
2018
Firm of the Year Award, Southern Alberta Chapter
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Recognizing excellence, creativity and innovation in custom architectural millwork design
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Award Magazine
2017
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Magrath School Modernization profile
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Article: Magrath School Modernization Project
Association for Learning Environments
2017
Outstanding Design for New Construction, Alberta Chapter
Coalbanks Elementary School
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Association for Learning Environments
2017
Outstanding Design for Modernization, Alberta Chapter
F.P. Walshe School Modernization
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Allied Arts Council Excellence Award
2016
AACE Business Award
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FWBA Architects was awarded the AACE Business Award for outstanding philanthropic contributions to an arts organization and thereby enhancing the entire arts community at the 11th Annual Mayor's Luncheon for Business and the Arts. Nominated by the Southern Alberta Art Gallery, the award recognizes FWBA's extensive history of outstanding support for art and culture in Lethbridge.
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Imagineering Magazine
2016
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St. Teresa Place profile
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Council of Education Facility Planners International
2015
Outstanding Design for Modernization Addition, Alberta Chapter
Cardston Elementary School
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Fire Chief - Station Style Design Award
2012
Gold, Shared Facilities Fire Station Award
Lethbridge Fire Hall
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Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce
2011
Business of the Year
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Wider Horizons Magazine
2010
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Kodiak House profile, new student residence at Lethbridge College
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Article: Resident Designers
Council of Education Facility Planners International
2004
Outstanding Design for Educational Environment New Construction, Alberta Chapter
St. Patrick Fine Arts Elementary School
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Lethbridge City Hall
2003
Artistic Use of Masonry, Award of Merit
Lethbridge City Hall
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Category: Architectural Masonry Design
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Council of Education Facility Planners International
2003
Outstanding Design for Educational Environment New Construction, Alberta Chapter
St. Paul Elementary School
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AWARDS & ASSOCIATIONS
The full record, decade by decade.
2023
Prairie Wood Design Awards
Recreational Award
Waterton Lakes National Park Visitor Centre
2022
Association for Learning Environments (AB Chapter)
2022 Award of Merit
Tilly K-9 School Replacement, Grasslands Public School
2021
Award Magazine
Dr. Robert Plaxton Elementary School
Lethbridge School Division
2020
Association for Learning Environments
Outstanding Design for Modernization, Award of Merit, Alberta Chapter
Magrath School Modernization
2019
Association for Learning Environments
Outstanding Design for Modernization, Alberta Chapter
Medicine Hat High School Modernization
2019
Lethbridge Construction Association Magazine
Senator Joyce Fairbairn Middle School profile
Article: A Place to Collaborate
2019
Lethbridge Construction Association Magazine
FWBA Architects' 90th-anniversary profile
Article: Building on a Legacy in Lethbridge
2019
Architectural Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada
Design Innovation Award Winner, Southern Alberta Chapter
Magrath School Modernization
Category: Commercial Millwork2018
Architectural Woodwork Manufacturers Association of Canada
Firm of the Year Award, Southern Alberta Chapter
Recognizing excellence, creativity and innovation in custom architectural millwork design
2017
Award Magazine
Magrath School Modernization profile
Article: Magrath School Modernization Project
2017
Association for Learning Environments
Outstanding Design for New Construction, Alberta Chapter
Coalbanks Elementary School
2017
Association for Learning Environments
Outstanding Design for Modernization, Alberta Chapter
F.P. Walshe School Modernization
2016
Allied Arts Council Excellence Award
AACE Business Award
FWBA Architects was awarded the AACE Business Award for outstanding philanthropic contributions to an arts organization and thereby enhancing the entire arts community at the 11th Annual Mayor's Luncheon for Business and the Arts. Nominated by the Southern Alberta Art Gallery, the award recognizes FWBA's extensive history of outstanding support for art and culture in Lethbridge.
2016
Imagineering Magazine
St. Teresa Place profile
2015
Council of Education Facility Planners International
Outstanding Design for Modernization Addition, Alberta Chapter
Cardston Elementary School
2012
Fire Chief - Station Style Design Award
Gold, Shared Facilities Fire Station Award
Lethbridge Fire Hall
2011
Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce
Business of the Year
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2010
Wider Horizons Magazine
Kodiak House profile, new student residence at Lethbridge College
Article: Resident Designers
2004
Council of Education Facility Planners International
Outstanding Design for Educational Environment New Construction, Alberta Chapter
St. Patrick Fine Arts Elementary School
2003
Lethbridge City Hall
Artistic Use of Masonry, Award of Merit
Lethbridge City Hall
Category: Architectural Masonry Design2003
Council of Education Facility Planners International
Outstanding Design for Educational Environment New Construction, Alberta Chapter
St. Paul Elementary School
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion
The Best Outcomes Come From Broad Perspectives.
We believe architecture and design are strongest when shaped by a diversity of voices, experiences, and perspectives. Through meaningful engagement, collaboration, and a deep understanding of how people use spaces, we create environments that are welcoming, functional, and responsive to the communities they serve. Equity, diversity, and inclusion are integral to both our design process and our workplace culture.
Inclusive Design
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Accessibility is more than a code requirement, we endeavor to create environments that are intuitive, welcoming, and usable by everyone.
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Engaging directly with end users helps ensure that diverse voices, including those that often are underrepresented, are heard and reflected in the design process.
Culture & Accountability
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We foster a workplace culture where every team member shares responsibility for creating an environment built on respect, inclusion, and belonging.
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Women hold one-third of the firm's equity ownership, and our leadership team includes representation from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Community Connections
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Through scholarships, pro bono work, volunteerism and community sponsorships, we invest in the people, organizations, and communities we serve.
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We support Indigenous-led organizations in our communities through ongoing contributions and a commitment to continued learning and understanding.
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As a Living Wage Employer, we believe investing in our people helps build a stronger workplace and stronger communities.
An ongoing responsibility
At ARC28, we believe the best outcomes come from broad perspectives. As an ongoing responsibility, we are committed to listening, learning, and creating an environment where different experiences and viewpoints are welcomed, respected, and reflected in our work and in the places we help create.
Looking forward
Today, ARC28 represents the next chapter of a firm that has been shaping communities since 1928. While our name has evolved, the principles that have guided us for nearly a century remain unchanged: integrity, expertise, collaboration, and inspired design.
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We are architects, interior designers, and problem-solvers committed to delivering thoughtful, responsible outcomes that elevate the human experience and strengthen the communities we serve.
