New Principal Retrospectives: Alexis Finlay and Mumtaz Anwar

Alexis Finlay, Principal and Architect, joined ACI Architecture in 2023 with a strong commitment to practical innovation and sustainable design. Her expertise has already made an impact on several key projects in 2024:

• Led the design of the Bow Valley High School Addition and Modernization, incorporating innovative sustainable features and inclusive learning spaces.
• Spearheaded the development of the Ogilvie Ridge townhome project, supporting the City’s need for more affordable and sustainable housing options.

Q: What qualities have you brought to the ACI team?

Alexis: I bring a strong aptitude for quick and effective problem-solving, a collaborative and team-oriented approach, and a commitment to fostering mentorship and growth opportunities for employees. Additionally, I am passionate about advancing our team’s design thinking to drive innovation and excellence.

Mumtaz Anwar, Principal and Architect, has been with ACI for eighteen years. Promoted to a principal in 2022, Mumtaz continues to refine her expertise by combining imaginative vision with practical solutions. Her background in diverse projects and large-scale design has helped her approach challenges with fresh ideas and a problem-solving mindset, contributing significantly to recent projects:

• Led the design of the new K-6 Islamic elementary school for the Arabian Muslim Association, identifying the educational needs of the community with consideration to religious and cultural preferences; creating a meaningful and inspiring learning environment for students.
• Led the design of the new Glenridding 7-12 Junior High School in Edmonton, reflecting a design methodology that supports Edmonton Public School Board philosophies and operational requirements fused with 21st Century Learning principles.

Q: What has been your biggest learning in a principal role at ACI?

Mumtaz: My biggest learning as a principal at ACI has been the importance of balance - between leading and listening, creativity and practicality, and maintaining focus on the big picture while attending to the finer details. I’ve learned that true leadership is not solely about decision-making, but also about building strong relationships, cultivating trust within the team, and collaboratively working toward a shared vision. This role has taught me to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, stay adaptable, and always keep end users at the heart of everything we do.

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H2 Joins ACI: Elevating Our Standards

We were thrilled to announce that H2 officially joined ACI Architecture in October 2023. This esteemed partnership has enhanced our commitment to quality, innovation, and industry leadership.

We spoke with Henry Howard, our Lead Architect from H2 and now Principal at ACI, to gain insights into this exciting development over the last year.

Q: What did joining ACI mean for H2, and how does it help shape who ACI is today?

Henry: Joining ACI is a testament to our shared priorities, dedication to excellence, and the rigorous standards we uphold in our projects. For H2, aligning with ACI has allowed us to adopt cutting-edge practices and technologies that enhance project sustainability and efficiency. This integration strengthens ACI’s ability to deliver innovative solutions while maintaining its reputation for excellence.

Henry brings extensive experience to ACI, having worked on over 400 projects in the commercial and industrial sectors. Some of his notable contributions in 2024 include:

• MacEwan University, City Centre Campus, West Village Square: Underutilized space beneath the four west towers was transformed into a dynamic student hub and gathering space, addressing both spatial challenges and the need for enhanced occupant exiting capacity while also providing a sheltered pathway for individuals with mobility challenges.
• Calgary Data Centre Campus, Planning and Design: Led the planning and design of a new $250M Data Centre and Campus with STACK Developments and PCL Construction.

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25th Year Career Milestone: Darryl Rewniak

We could not close the year without this honorable mention. In October, Darryl Rewniak, Principal and Architect, celebrated his 25th year at ACI Architecture.

Darryl began his journey with ACI in 1999 as a technologist with a passion for creating impeccable working drawings. His unwavering dedication soon paid off, and just four years later, he became a partner at the firm. This promotion marked a pivotal change in his role, transforming him from a valued team member into the very heart of ACI. Those who know Darryl well know that beneath the tough exterior is a kind and compassionate leader who takes care of his team without hesitation.

Throughout his 25 years at ACI, Darryl has become a mentor, leader, and friend to many. We are all immensely grateful for the invaluable experience and expertise he shares, the acronyms that he makes up (and graces us with daily), and his abundantly generous spirit. When asked what is one of the most important things learned over the last 25 years: 

“When working within the health sector, I have a saying: ‘You always need to leave a project satisfying the users, as one day you may need to be admitted there.’ And hopefully, they remember you for the good work you completed.”

Thank you, Darryl, for your countless contributions that have shaped ACI into the firm we are all proud to be a part of today.

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As we close the chapter on 2024, we are energized by our accomplishments and the promising developments on the horizon. Thank you for being part of our journey. We remain committed to shaping the future of architecture and look forward to new challenges and opportunities in 2025.

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