We are a Toronto-based Architecture practice that re-imagines conventional building typologies through the investigation of program, unexpected spatial relationships, local materials and construction techniques. We view each project as a unique design opportunity to be shaped by research, context, client input and budget. Working both independently and in collaboration with other design offices, we embrace the challenge of achieving singular projects, at any scale or degree of complexity.

Studio VAARO is a registered practice in Ontario, Canada (OAA) and in NY state, USA.

Aleris Rodgers

Partner

Aleris has worked in numerous award-winning offices in Switzerland, Los Angeles and Hong Kong. Prior to founding Studio VAARO, she worked over three years for Pritzker prize winning office Herzog & De Meuron on Hong Kong's M+ museum, with a special focus on Landscape and Concrete construction. 

Aleris graduated from Harvard University with a B.A. in Psychology. She earned her Masters degree in Architecture at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

Aleris is Assistant Professor, teaching stream, at the University of Toronto’s Daniels School of Architecture.

Francesco Valente-Gorjup

Partner, OAA

Francesco has worked in numerous award-winning offices in Switzerland, Los Angeles, Hong Kong and Toronto, including Renzo Piano, Johnston Marklee and KPMB. Prior to his return to Toronto he worked for six years for Pritzker prize winning office Herzog & De Meuron on several international residential and cultural projects including Hong Kong's M+ museum, with a special focus on façade design. 

Francesco graduated from the University of Toronto with a B.A. in Architecture and English Literature. He earned his Masters degree in Architecture at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

Francesco is a Sessional Lecturer at the University of Toronto’s Daniels School of Architecture.

Team:

Present: Nathan Shakura & Negar Mashoof

Past: Tanner Field, Alexander Lamarche, Liam Hall, Shengjie Qiu, Chris Qiu, Muskan Goel, Mo Bayati, Caleigh MacDonald, Anvi Nagpal

Collaborators:

Studio C.S. Lunde, Studio Guma, Cornecelli, Gabriel Fain Architects