we create spaces that shape culture
an integrated collective of experts, we know complex challenges require radical thinking. we think beyond the boundaries of design to unlock spatial, cultural and human potential.
leadership
walker mckinley
Founder, Chief Executive Officer, 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
Partner, architect / aaa, aibc, oaa, mraic
Bao has dedicated her practice to the belief that great spaces and buildings require a commitment to the finesse of scale. Employing an always interdisciplinary lens founded from her background in the private art and publishing sectors, Bao’s approach is founded on collaboration - designing from the inside out to create layered, complex and richly detailed design solutions.
Leading an inquisitive and highly creative team of architects, interior designers and technologists, the team is assembled for their international training, rigorous methodologies and relentless pursuit of creating meaningful and resonant spaces.
Bao dedicates her time as a panel member of the Calgary Urban Design Review Panel and as a guest critic with the University of Calgary’s School of Architecture, Planning, and Landscape (SAPL). She serves on juries and selection committees for various art and design advocacy groups and has delivered talks across Western Canada. Furthermore, Bao is a career mentor with the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association, offering guidance and support to newcomer women and their families.
emma dwinnell
Partner, Director of Procurement / m.edes, baid
Trained in interior design, Emma leads a dynamic team of creatives, operations specialists, and project managers with the FF&E procurement division of McKinley Studios.
Emma’s unique expertise offers a holistic understanding of the design and procurement value chain, giving her a distinct edge in FF&E specification and procurement. Her comprehensive approach combines creativity with strategic insight, allowing her to expertly manage everything from specification and purchasing to fabrication, logistics, and post-project support. She has developed key internal processes that drive efficiency and material value for her clients, ensuring seamless project delivery and exceptional outcomes.
Emma is known for her collaborative style, working closely with design and architectural teams to share her expertise in custom furniture and lighting, fabrication techniques, materiality, and ergonomics. She also offers clients exclusive access to a network of over 1,000 local and global vendors, enhancing the scope and quality of every project.
matt buchholz
Partner, President / m.fin, b.a
Matt is a dynamic leader who seamlessly integrates his extensive expertise in finance into his role as President of McKinley Studios. In addition to this position, he serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Tse’khene Energy Transition Hub, which stands as the largest Indigenous-led, on-reserve clean energy project in Canadian history. This unique combination of experience allows Matt to approach McKinley Studios with a strategic mindset, ensuring that every project not only captivates but also delivers measurable value to clients and communities. Throughout his career, Matt has held several senior roles in finance and consulting, where he advised on transactions totaling billions of dollars. Most recently, he has successfully secured over $100 million in financing for Indigenous-led projects across Canada.
At McKinley Studios, Matt champions a collaborative environment, empowering the team to harness their talents and explore new ideas, all while maintaining a strong focus on project feasibility and client objectives. By blending artistry with strategic insight, Matt continues to drive McKinley Studios toward new heights of success and innovation in the industry.
adam hart
Partner, Chief Financial Officer / b.comm
Adam is the Chief Financial Officer at McKinley Studios, where he brings expertise and strategic thinking to the forefront. Alongside his role at McKinley, he’s also the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for the Duz Cho Group of Companies and serves as CFO for the Tse’khene Energy Transition Hub.
With a Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University, Adam’s background in economics and accounting gives him a solid foundation to navigate the financial landscape of the industry. He’s worked with a variety of small to medium-sized businesses across sectors like energy services, retail, and specialty manufacturing. This diverse experience equips him with a unique perspective on financial management and strategic planning.
Adam’s passion for supporting the creative process makes him an invaluable asset to the McKinley Studios team, where he plays a crucial role in fostering an environment that encourages both artistic exploration and financial integrity. In Adam's view, the best projects come from a harmonious blend of creativity and financial savvy, and he is dedicated to making sure that McKinley Studios continues to thrive in both realms.