Duff Balmer
Author
As a former principal architect at Perkins&Will, I have over 25 years of professional experience designing buildings and homes that elevate human dignity, well-being, and inclusion through thoughtful design.
A new resource · Coming soon
Designed
to Stay
Creating a home to live well with Parkinson's
We are thrilled to announce the start of a valuable resource for rethinking homes to meet the needs of those living with Parkinson’s. Based on writings by architect Duff Balmer, Designed to Stay offers contemporary architectural strategies and practical case studies for building and adapting homes to foster comfort, security, independence and wellbeing.
With the generous support of Parkinson Canada's CARE Fund, the book is now being adapted to a website with global access.
Comfort, security,
independence and
wellbeing — at home.
Photos by Félix Michaud, courtesy of Akb
Who We Are
Two architects, one shared perspective
We are two architects living with Parkinson's who are rethinking how design can positively influence wellness, confidence and comfort.
Robert Kastelic
Author
I am the Co-founder of Akb, a Toronto-based residential architecture studio recognized for its nuanced approach to the emotional and sensory experience of space. Our practice is grounded in a deep understanding of shaping spaces that respond to the full spectrum of human experience.
Our Team
The people making it happen.
Philip Fenech
Editor
As an architect, I have helped design community centres and libraries, gaining firsthand insight into how thoughtful public spaces support inclusion and wellbeing. I have also authored several articles that translate complex design ideas into clear and compelling narratives.
Alanna Weill
Occupational Therapist
I am an experienced occupational therapist with a particular interest in working with people living with Parkinson’s. Through my work, I have developed a deep understanding of how improvements to our home environments can make a meaningful difference to quality of life and help maintain independence for longer.
Catherine Osborne
Project Manager
With more than 25 years in architecture and design journalism, I bring a longstanding curiosity about the ideas that shape the built environment. A former editor-in-chief of Azure magazine, I am now Communications Director at Akb, where I translate the studio’s architectural thinking and creative vision into compelling narratives.
Let's Connect
Stay in the loop.
While we work behind the scenes, we invite you to join our newsletter and stay connected as Designed to Stay takes shape.
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Photo by Caitlin Murray