Since 2007, Studio JCI has been reshaping the way we think about architecture and its role in society. Founded by architects Jaegap and Sue Jean Chung, this Toronto-based firm has earned a reputation for delivering thoughtful, contextually sensitive designs across the residential, commercial, and public sectors.

At Studio JCI, design is more than aesthetics—it's a form of problem-solving. The team takes a process-driven approach that integrates regulatory strategy, urban planning, and building performance to create architecture that adds long-term value for both clients and communities. With every project, they aim to smooth the path from concept to construction, guiding clients through the complex world of municipal approvals and policy frameworks.

A Broader View of Architecture

Studio JCI believes architecture is not just about buildings—it’s about shaping better ways of living. That belief drives their holistic design philosophy, which begins with a deep understanding of local identity, community needs, and municipal processes. Rather than starting with form, Studio JCI starts with context: the client’s goals, the site’s constraints, and the city’s evolving policies.

Whether designing a triplex in a dense neighborhood or a public facility that serves thousands, the team brings macroscopic thinking to every phase. Their goal is to find hidden potential in underutilized spaces, with designs that balance creativity, functionality, and constructability.

Leadership in Housing Innovation

Studio JCI is a vocal advocate for sustainable and inclusive urban development. Their 2019 “Multi-Tach” proposal, which reimagined Toronto’s approach to affordable and multigenerational housing, earned accolades from the Ontario Association of Architects. The initiative proposed sharing infrastructure across units to reduce costs and resource use—an idea now gaining traction in urban planning circles.

The studio continues to influence public policy and housing innovation through workshops, roundtable discussions, and its own “JCI Learns” platform—an initiative focused on public education and professional mentorship.

A Culture Built on Values

At the core of Studio JCI is a vibrant team of over 30 professionals united by four core values:

  • Striving for Excellence: Every project, regardless of scale, is treated with the same commitment to quality and innovation.
  • Macroscopic Thinking: The team looks beyond the building envelope, engaging with broader issues like zoning, infrastructure, and community resilience.
  • Progressive Improvement: Studio JCI fosters a culture of learning, mentorship, and constant refinement.
  • Accountability and Reliability: Projects succeed when teams are transparent, diverse, and supportive. The studio cultivates an inclusive workplace where everyone is empowered to contribute meaningfully.

Studio JCI is also a proud equal opportunity employer, welcoming professionals from all backgrounds and fostering long-lasting career paths through mentorship and empathy.

Looking Forward

Studio JCI’s mission is clear: to improve how people live, mentor the next generation of city builders, and expand the ways architects can create impact. With a portfolio rooted in both design excellence and social relevance, Studio JCI continues to push boundaries—and build a better future, one project at a time.