We are a holistic design practice and believe in an integrative design approach which extends beyond the building and includes all of the elements of the site from architecture and landscape, down to furnishings and lighting. In our projects, we place great emphasis on enhancing the connections to nature, and awareness of the environment. Suulin means 'forest' in taiwanese, which partly derives from the meaning of our combined names, while serving also to mark our commitment to the environment.
We have both practiced the art of building for over 25 years. Before working at SSA Amy was previously an associate and senior designer at Ennead Architects (formerly Polshek Partnership Architects) where her principal projects were the Clinton Presidential Library, the NY Standard Hotel, and the Weill Cornell Medical College Research Building. James Chavel was at Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects where he worked primarily on the Phoenix Art Museum Extension and Cheatham Residence.
We are indebted to our mentors in these offices and are forever grateful for their commitment to practicing architecture the way they do. As colleagues they continue to show us the way, and as friends they enrich our lives. Because of these people we have had many years of valuable experience and now continue to pursue meaningful and collaborative relationships with our own clients who share our passion for life and the design that it supports.
Suulin Architects is an architecture firm located in downtown Toronto. Licensed to practice in the Province of Ontario, New York State, and Hawaii. Suulin Architects is working on projects in both Canada and the US. Amy is LEED and Passive House accredited in Canada and the United States.
Amy Lin, principal
James Chavel, principal
Valerie Arthur, senior associate
Qinyu Lu
Michel Pilon-Briggs
Pin Hsiao