About Wayback

Wayback is a full-service architecture and design studio based in Toronto, Canada, licensed by the Ontario Association of Architects, rooted in 15 years of friendship and over 25 years of collective expertise.

We specialize in creating commercial, cultural, and residential spaces that resonate with purpose and individuality.

Guided by principles of collaboration, sustainability, and contextual sensitivity, our process is rigorous yet approachable, blending optimism and creativity with open, transparent communication.

From initial hand-built models and pencil sketches to thoughtful consideration of context, scale, and materials, our designs aim to be timeless, intuitive, and evocative—places that truly feel alive.

We welcome projects of all shapes and sizes and look forward to bringing your vision to life.

“We believe great architecture emerges from shared vision and trust between clients and designers.”

-Stephen Van Der Meer, co-founder

  • STEPHEN VAN DER MEER

    OAA, M.ARCH, BEDS, BA

    I like to think of every project as a portrait of the client. Gardens and landscapes should be as important as the buildings. Sustainability and economy go hand in hand and the best buildings are simple places that help you feel present in your life. 

    Influences on our work can come from anywhere, but a few points of reference are the lanes around our office, vernacular buildings and Bea’s (my daughter) art!

  • JORDAN WINTERS

    M.ARCH, BEDS

    I grew up in Sebec, Maine-a microscopic town in New England-‘You can’t get there from here.’

    My father is a cabinetmaker so there was always a woodworking shop just around the corner.  I worked with him on occasion.  My first real job was at the Northwoods Canoe Company after school and during the summer.  I guess somewhere between helping my dad with kitchen installations and building wood and canvas canoes I found an appreciation for craft and building things. If nothing else, I developed a high tolerance for sanding.

    I studied in Halifax, Nova Scotia where I first met Steve and Kirsty.  I hold a Master of Architecture from Dalhousie University.  I worked in Boston for a bit, London a bit longer and then at Environmental Works in Seattle, Washington for a few years on multi-family housing projects before moving to Toronto in 2009.  I joined Kirsty after gaining experience at several design driven architectural firms in the city. We ran Bruce STUDIO together until 2016. 

    My dog’s name is Jimmy. He has interchangeable last names – Carter, McNulty, Page…. Jim Beam on occasion. He may be here when you visit.