Behind the Build: Jackie Burgess & Chris Chevalier - s.no Architecture Pt.1

Founded in 2020 by Jackie Burgess and Chris Chevalier, s.no architecture is a Whitehorse-based studio shaped by the unique environmental and cultural context of the North. Their name—an abbreviation for "site north office"—reflects their commitment to designing architecture that responds to climate, community, and place.

Jackie, a Yukoner who grew up in Beaver Creek, and Chris, originally from Edmonton, met while studying architecture at the University of Manitoba and later earned their master’s degrees from the University of Calgary. Their professional journey took them through firms across Canada, but ultimately, they were drawn to the opportunity and challenge of building in the North.

s.no architecture emerged from a deep-rooted ambition to create meaningful and lasting spaces in the Yukon. The firm’s early years were defined by bootstrapping—working from home with secondhand equipment, leveraging family support, and taking on a series of residential projects that established their reputation. Today, their portfolio extends beyond homes to include mixed-use developments, cultural spaces, and affordable housing, all designed with a sensitivity to the realities of northern construction.

Notable projects include The Current, a 34-unit mixed-use building in downtown Whitehorse, and 408 Wood Street, a seven-unit infill project maximizing urban density. Their work has earned national recognition, including being named to Twenty + Change, a program highlighting Canada’s emerging design talent.

Specializing in resilient, energy-efficient design, s.no architecture embraces the challenges of working in extreme conditions—from limited daylight to harsh winters—creating architecture that is not only functional but deeply connected to the northern way of life.

Stay Tuned for Part Two!

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