Celebrating milestones in 2025

A Legacy of Design: Celebrating the Milestones of DF Architecture, Atelier Pacific, and Barnett Dembek Architects

2025 is a milestone year for Group 161. Together, our three studios, DF Architecture, Atelier Pacific Architecture, and Barnett Dembek Architects, are celebrating a combined 72 years of architectural excellence in British Columbia.

DF Architecture – 15 years

Atelier Pacific Architecture – 32 years

Barnett Dembek Architects – 25 years

While each firm has its own unique story and strengths, they share a common purpose: designing communities that are beautiful, practical, and grounded in the needs of people and places. Today, they operate under the Group 161 umbrella — a unified brand that reflects their collective capacity, values, and scale without compromising the distinct identity or credentials of each studio.

Building the Future, Together

From townhomes and low-rise apartments to high-rises, schools, hotels, and mixed-use developments, the combined team at Group 161 has delivered over 500 projects across BC. This milestone is a testament to our collaborative mindset, our drive to evolve with the needs of our cities, and our shared belief that architecture should work not only on paper but in the lives of the people who inhabit it.

Highlights from the Studios

DF Architecture – 15 Years

Founded in 2010 in Richmond, DF Architecture built a reputation early on for efficiency, design-forward thinking, and reliability. The firm is known for its work in West Surrey, where it helped usher in a new wave of contemporary residential architecture. Today, DF Architecture is leading projects like the largest residential project in Surrey, a 3,000-unit, 20-building residential masterplan in Surrey’s Newton neighbourhood, and multiple high-rises and townhomes in the Lower Mainland

Atelier Pacific Architecture – 32 Years

With three decades of architectural leadership, Atelier Pacific has contributed to a wide range of projects across the region, including educational, commercial, and institutional developments. Known for its adaptable design process and hands-on project management, APA remains a trusted partner for private and public sector clients alike.

Barnett Dembek Architects – 25 Years

For over two decades, BDA has been crafting residential and mixed-use buildings that combine elegance, innovation, and functional design. Their expertise in multi-family developments and interior architecture has earned them recognition as a design leader throughout BC.

Our Shared Values

Across all three firms, our philosophy is consistent:

Design that matters – We focus on aesthetics, livability, and long-term value

Efficiency in execution – Streamlined processes help developers stay on schedule and on budget

Team and talent – Our strength lies in our people, from senior architects to emerging designers

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate 15, 25, and 32 years of architectural impact, we’re just as focused on the future. Our studios are actively shaping communities that are sustainable, connected, and resilient — places where design meets purpose.

To our clients, collaborators, and team members, thank you for being part of the journey. Here’s to continuing to design what’s next.