About

Design Harmonized with the Environment 

Studio 9 Architecture + Planning is a premier architectural studio based in Nelson, BC. Renowned for their expertise in high-end residential designs, multi-unit residential projects, and innovative solutions for challenging site planning, they bring a unique blend of creativity, precision, and sustainability to every project. The team at Studio 9 is dedicated to transforming visions into extraordinary spaces, ensuring that each design harmonizes with its environment while meeting the highest standards of function and building codes.

We are designers that are very hands on and invested in the projects we take on. This allows for a more collaborative and enjoyable experience throughout the design process. We love what we do and remain involved throughout projects of all scales and budget ranges. 

The Team

Steven Kaup

Architect AIBC, LEED AP

Steven’s background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art and Journalism, Master’s training in Construction Management, and a Masters degree in Architecture. This experience is fortified with over 10 years sharpening his building skills as a carpenter and contractor in New Mexico and Colorado. Steven’s passions encompass a wide view of architecture as not only a professional service, but a life process. Be it participating as a community member, outdoor enthusiast, or as an agent of positive change for people experiencing built environments.

Nelson Rocha

Architect AIBC, LEED AP

Nelson’s passion for design and architecture evolved out of an arts background and interest in several related creative pursuits including woodworking, metal work, and industrial design. He studied at the University of British Columbia and during his degree spent a term in Santiago, Chile to gain a new perspective and further expand his experience of architecture in the academic and physical realms. Nelson’s design process continues to evolve, deriving inspiration from the natural surroundings and nourishing an environmentally mindful philosophy on design and building systems.

Alexa Walker

Project Manager, Intern Architect AIBC

Alexa’s master’s of architecture training in the UK, and exposure to progressive practices in London, Switzerland and British Columbia, Canada, has established a robust background as she emerges to be an excellent professional architect. With inherent attention to detail and a wide understanding for seeking design solutions important client goals, Alexa is successfully executing large and small scale projects for Studio 9 from start to finish.

Josh Kunze

Architectural Technologist AIBC

15+ years in the architectural design sphere, Josh has expertise that spans from indicative design to carrying out project completion. He has contributed to a large array of project types around western Canada. He is highly client-focused and is dedicated to maintaining forefront design standards, skillfully balancing innovative aesthetics with efficient functionality. Outside of the studio, he finds inspiration trading time between the city and wilderness.

Extended Network

Our team of highly trained and experienced architects and designers are here to ensure attentiveness, competence, and efficiency at every stage of a project. We operate as a small core team, valuing agility and consistency but are still able to confidently manage large scale projects. We engage experts from a pool of trusted partners, allowing us to bring the right people into the fold as needed on a project by project basis.

Building A Better Way

Creating built environments that are informed by their surroundings, finding new and innovative ways to lighten our impact and embrace the nature that inspired us.