leadership

walker mckinley / principal
architect / aaa, aibc, oaa, fraic

An alumnus of Harvard University Graduate School of Design, Walker McKinley has honed his ability to determine how each client and user group fits into a global picture, with a focus on design and its relationship with art and commerce.

These efforts have resulted in the six-studio model that reflects Walker’s commitment to design as a cultural and artistic act. His approach is rooted in strategy, mapping the trajectory for each project as it relates to its role within a social and cultural context. Walker’s pursuit of knowledge culminates in McKinley Studio’s specialized thought-leadership and research division, Black Chamber.

Walker’s immersive design approach is supported by his extensive community engagement. He is a member of the College of Fellows of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, an acting board member of the Architecture Foundation of British Columbia, and has held positions as Councillor of the Alberta Association of Architects, Director of the Advisory Council to the School of Interior Design, Board of Director, Alberta Ballet and Honens International Piano Competition and instructor at the Mount Royal University.

bao-nghi nhan / director of architecture / architect / aaa, aibc, mraic

Bao has worked alongside Walker for over a decade and has been instrumental in the growth of McKinley Studio’s architectural practice. With 20 years of global experience, Bao is dedicated to an interdisciplinary approach, leveraging her time in international arts and publishing industries to enhance McKinley’s six-studio environment. Her work is multi-scaled and layered, rooted in placemaking regardless of project type, size, or sector.

As resident director of McKinley’s Calgary Studio and Director of the Architecture Studio across multiple cities, Bao leads an inquisitive and highly creative team of architects, assembled for their international training, rigorous methodologies, and relentless pursuit of creating exceptional, impactful built environments. Employing processes that are both exploratory and collaborative, Bao and her team prioritize fostering alignment with all stakeholders on every project, in the pursuit of design excellence for all involved.

Bao is passionate about developing talent both within the studio and within the larger industry. She is an active mentor for the Internship in Architecture Program of the AAA, is a mentor and volunteer for the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association, and volunteers her time with design advocacy groups such as d.talks.

jenn mehrer / director of interior design / registered interior designer / idibc, idc, ncidq

Jenn Mehrer is a highly accomplished industry leader with an impressive track record of success. With over twenty years of experience in the industry, Jenn has built a reputation as a visionary Director of the Interiors Studio and a resident Director of McKinley's Vancouver Studio.

Jenn's extensive experience spans multiple cities, allowing her to lead a united studio with a performance-driven and human-centric approach. Her passion for design in the context of culture shines through every aspect of her work, making for a rich and layered design approach.

Jenn is an invaluable partner to her clients and team, possessing a rare combination of business acumen and design expertise. As an accomplished project leader, she excels in bringing out the strengths of each team member and assembling diverse, capable teams specific to each project.

Jenn's collaborative relationships with clients are built on transparent communication and sound advice, resulting in exceptional design solutions that exceed expectations. Her commitment to quality, inspired attitude, and creative vision resonate throughout the firm's studios and work around the world, solidifying her reputation as an industry leader. With Jenn's guidance, the McKinley Studio team consistently delivers exceptional design solutions that elevate the industry.

mike rogers / director of mknly procurement / registered interior designer / bfa, baid, ncidq

Mike is the founder of mknly procurement, McKinley Studios’ furniture design house. Mike’s diverse background as a designer includes over two decades of experience creating stunning residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces across Canada, and notably in LA.

Mike takes pride in his commitment to enhancing every client’s tactile experience with the furnishings and decor he sources and his knowledge of the the best-in-class and up-and coming makers, artisans, designers and fabricators. Mike believes strongly in the power of design to create powerful emotional connections in a space. He has brought his unique talent and intuitive eye to a wide range of projects throughout North America, including luxury private residences, restaurants, hotels, and private clubs.