PRINCIPAL | AIA, OAA, AAA, LEED A.P.

Architect Wanda Dalla Costa (she/her) is an advocate for Indigenous peoples. She is a member of the Saddle Lake Cree Nation in Northern Alberta Canada. Her role at Tawaw is to oversee Indigenous methodologies and architectural spatial innovation. Her belief in the power of architecture to contribute to the well-being and belonging of user groups, inspires her to ‘productively disrupt’ all prototypes for cultural inclusion. Her aim is to embed lifeways, worldviews and identity into every project. With a passion for design and a keen interest in the potential of Indigenous knowledge to contribute to global transformation, she works at all scales, from custom interior elements to Indigenous landscapes.

Before forming Tawaw Architecture Collective in 2010 she worked in Calgary for over a decade building high rise residential, commercial projects, and designing culturally-driven buildings for nations across Alberta and British Columbia.

Wanda is a graduate of University of Calgary (Masters of Architecture), Southern Institute of Technology (Master of Design Research in City Planning and Policy) and University of Alberta (Bachelor of Arts). She also received an Honorary Doctorate in 2023 (Athabasca University). In 2022, she was recognized as an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Architecture Institute of Canada, in 2019, she was recognized as a YBCA 100 recipient by the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts, a list which celebrates people, organizations, and movements shifting culture through ideas, their art, and their activism. Wanda enjoys spending time with her family, traveling the world and competitive billiards.

DESIGN DIRECTOR

Claudio Vekstein is an award-winning architect and educator whose career spans continents, cultures, and decades of committed public practice. Originally from Buenos Aires, he brings over 25 years of experience designing civic, cultural, and educational projects that prioritize social and spatial justice. Claudio is Program Head and Professor of Architecture in the Master of Architecture program at Arizona State University, where he leads studios focused on architecture as a tool for transformation and equity.

Prior to joining Tawaw, Claudio founded and directed Opera Publica, a practice rooted in radical public architecture, producing internationally recognized works including the Memorial Space to the Farmers’ Revolt and the Montessori School in Luján. His projects have been exhibited at multiple Venice Biennales and honored with distinctions such as the Baukunst Architektur Preis in Germany and the Public Practices Award in Argentina.

Claudio studied architecture at the University of Buenos Aires and earned his Master of Architecture from the Städelschule Art Academy in Frankfurt under Enric Miralles and Peter Cook. His work continues to be grounded in deep cultural inquiry, poetic materiality, and the belief that architecture can—and should—serve the public good.

DESIGN MANAGER | Intern Architect, AAA, M.Arch

Ryan Blaney brings over a decade of experience in architecture and design, grounded in a commitment to social and environmental sustainability. As Design Manager at Tawaw Architecture Collective, he merges systems thinking with a hands-on approach—coordinating resources, guiding teams, and fostering collaboration with diverse communities and stakeholders.

His work spans from visionary concepts to the construction of transformative urban and community-based projects, including Indigenous housing, cultural spaces, and mixed-use developments. Ryan’s leadership style emphasizes mentorship, team culture, and the importance of engagement throughout all project phases.

He holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Calgary, with additional studies in Barcelona, and is a registered Intern Architect with the Alberta Association of Architects. At Tawaw, Ryan aligns his design practice with his personal values, contributing to architecture that supports cultural resurgence, collective well-being, and ecological responsibility.

STUDIO MANAGER | 2019 AIA Henry Adams Medal Recipient, M.Arch, NCARB

Born into a family of architects, designers, and artists in Iran, Mehdi Taghavi brings nearly two decades of international experience in architecture and engineering. Having launched his career in Dubai, Mehdi has since contributed to large-scale commercial, residential, and mixed-use projects across the Middle East, Central America, and North America.

As Studio Manager at Tawaw Architecture Collective, Mehdi draws on his technical expertise and collaborative leadership to guide projects from design through construction. He is especially passionate about creating human-centered spaces that reflect history, culture, and a strong sense of place. His approach integrates practical design with sustainable strategies and a deep respect for community narratives.

Mehdi holds a Master of Architecture from NewSchool of Architecture and Design in San Diego and a BS in Architectural Engineering from Ajman University in the UAE. A recipient of the AIA Henry Adams Medal and multiple design awards, he brings both excellence and humility to his work. At Tawaw, he values the opportunity to mentor emerging designers while learning from Indigenous knowledge systems and ways of building.

Outside the studio, Mehdi enjoys boxing, mountain biking, camping, and hiking with his wife, daughter, and their dog, Fifi.

ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST + DESIGNER | M.Arch, BEnvD, BSc

Mamie Griffith is a Dene/European architectural designer whose work is rooted in the prairie landscapes she calls home. With over a decade of experience, Mamie brings a unique interdisciplinary approach that blends architecture, landscape, project management, and Indigenous design consultation. She holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Manitoba, a Bachelor of Environmental Design from Dalhousie University, and a Bachelor of Science from Queen’s University.

Her practice is grounded in collaboration, community engagement, and the respectful representation of Indigenous cultures in the built environment. Mamie is passionate about co-creating spaces that are inclusive, healthy, and grounded in the cultural identities of local Indigenous communities. She works closely with Indigenous-led organizations to translate community visions into thoughtful, human-centered design outcomes.

At Tawaw Architecture Collective, Mamie’s role bridges engagement and design—ensuring that each project reflects the values and voices of those it serves. She aspires to one day bring her work to the Northwest Territories, collaborating with her Dene community on her ancestral lands.

ENGAGEMENT + PLANNING SPECIALIST

Edward Samson brings over 30 years of experience in planning and community development, with a career rooted in advancing social and economic equity for Native communities. His work spans every phase of planning—from concept and predevelopment through implementation and construction—and is grounded in deep relationships with tribal nations, nonprofits, public agencies, and advocacy groups at local, regional, and national levels.

With degrees in Economics and Environmental Planning from the University of California, Santa Cruz, Edward specializes in collaborative approaches that build capacity, bridge communication gaps, and connect communities to meaningful resources. His recent work focuses on affordable and culturally responsive housing for Native and underrepresented communities, recognizing that health, education, and housing are deeply intertwined.

At Tawaw Architecture Collective, Edward contributes his expertise in strategic visioning, land use planning, and engagement, helping guide projects that honor Indigenous knowledge and promote community-led development.

INTERN ARCHITECT | M.Arch, AAA

Darryl joined Tawaw Architecture because of its commitment to community-driven design and Indigenous-led architectural practices. The firm's approach to storytelling through built form resonated with her passion for creating spaces that are thoughtful, inclusive, and responsive to both people and place. Darryl has worked on 'Missing Middle' housing and research-driven design projects, she was drawn to Tawaw’s innovative methodologies and its emphasis on meaningful engagement.

Born and raised in Calgary, she earned her Master of Architecture from the University of Calgary and a Bachelor of Design from Alberta University of the Arts. Darryl’s architectural interests span parametric design, robotic fabrication, and material research, blending technology with craft. Beyond architecture, she has a background in photography, a love for ceramic arts, and a deep appreciation for music. Darryl is always excited about design that pushes boundaries and tells a compelling story.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER | B.Arch

Robyn is a member of the Navajo Nation. She is Tl’aashchi (Red Bottom), born for Biih Bitoodnii (Deer Spring), Honaghaahnii (One Who Walks Around), and Ashiinii (Salt People). Robyn graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from the University of Arizona. She’s on a mission to bring Indigenous wisdom back into the world of design. Passionate about how Indigenous peoples harmonized with Mother Earth using only what was given, she’s dedicated to modernizing spaces that reflect those sustainable, life-affirming traditions. Robyn’s joined TAWAW to bring back Indigenous lifeways into the fabric of contemporary architecture, creating spaces that resonate with the past lived-experiences while embracing the future. 

When Robyn’s not at work, you can find her fishing back at home, enjoying live-band music, or hunting down the best local new coffee spots! 

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER | BSD. ARCH & INT

Karrie Blackford is a member of the Tulalip Tribes of Washington State, part of the Coastal Salish Tribes of the Puget Sound. She brings a deep-rooted cultural perspective to her work, with a strong commitment to cultural responsibility and Indigenous representation in architecture. Karrie is particularly passionate about engagement strategies and works closely with Indigenous communities to ensure their voices are integral to the design process.

She is a multidisciplinary creative—an architectural designer, artist, photographer, and storyteller—exploring how visual expression and spatial design can work together. Driven by curiosity, culture, and care, she holds a background in architecture and interior design.

Karrie recently earned her Bachelor of Architecture from Arizona State University. Her work explores how the built environment can respond meaningfully to place, community, and ecology.

SENIOR TECHNOLOGIST | DIP.ARCH. TECH

Steven Meldrum is a Senior Technologist based in Calgary, Alberta, with over 16 years of experience in technical drafting, project management, and contract administration. His career spans a wide range of project types, including Indigenous-led initiatives, commercial developments, and public infrastructure.

At Tawaw Architecture Collective, Steven has played a key role in culturally significant projects such as the Arts Commons Transformation in Calgary and the Port Lands Flood Protection Shade Structure in Toronto. His collaborative and detail-oriented approach ensures that each project is technically rigorous while remaining deeply respectful of the communities it serves.

Rooted in his Métis heritage, Steven integrates Indigenous perspectives into his work, honoring the relationship between people, land, and built form. His strong problem-solving abilities and commitment to craft make him a vital contributor to meaningful and innovative design outcomes.

DESIGN CONSULTANT | M.Arch | PhD CANDIDATE

K. Jake Chakasim is a Cree designer from Attawapiskat First Nation and an Assistant Professor at Carleton University’s Azrieli School of Architecture and Urbanism. With a background spanning architecture, engineering, and Indigenous planning, his work bridges disciplines to support culturally grounded and community-led design.

Currently a PhD candidate at UBC’s School of Community and Regional Planning, Jake’s research focuses on practice-based approaches to resilience in First Nations urban and rural development. He has worked with firms such as Urban Arts Architecture and Two Row Architects, and has held roles in policy and technical support for Indigenous housing and infrastructure across Ontario.

Jake has contributed to national conversations on Indigenous design through projects like UNCEDED and the Venice Biennale, and was recognized with the ARCC Jonathan King Medal for innovation and integrity in design research. A member of the RAIC Indigenous Task Force, he continues to advocate for Indigenous presence, knowledge, and sovereignty within the built environment.