About
What sets us apart is the seamless integration of architecture and interiors under a single creative vision. Michael Taylor takes a deeply hands-on approach from the very first conversation — remaining fully involved throughout the design process and attending every client meeting.
Each project is an adventure undertaken in close collaboration with our clients. We work best with clients who bring both a strong point of view and an openness to new ideas — this dynamic is the foundation of homes that are truly unique, personal and exceptional. The key is the ability to listen deeply, and to translate that understanding into built form: warm, welcoming and livable environments that reflect who you are.
We fully appreciate that designing a new home, or reimagining an existing one, is one of the most significant undertakings in a client's life. Our role is to guide you through this process — thoughtfully, confidentially, and with genuine care — from the first sketch to long after construction is complete.
Scope of Services
Team
Our Toronto based studio is comprised of an experienced and dedicated staff. The direct hands-on involvement of Michael Taylor and the continuous guidance of an experienced architectural associate serve as the core of each project team that collaborate on projects from beginning to end.
Together, in an open studio environment, we develop projects through an engaging process of research, discussion, exploration of multiple options and material investigation, with the full participation of our clients.
Michael Taylor, Founder
B.A., M.Arch., OAA, RAIC
Michael Taylor is the founder of Michael Taylor Architecture + Design, building on the 25 year legacy of Taylor Smyth Architects which he co-founded in 2000. His personal approach to design is based on creating a partnership with each client to craft enduring spaces that benefit from his experience and expertise, and his unwavering commitment to work closely with them to achieve their unique vision.
Over the past 30 years, he has completed over 25 highly customized residential projects, as well as numerous community, educational, and office/workplace projects.Michael’s work has received over 25 awards for design excellence, including 3 Ontario Association of Architects awards, one of which also received the People’s Choice award, as well as a Toronto Urban Design Award for the Market Street redevelopment at St. Lawrence Market.CONNECT WITH MERecent Experience
EDUCATION
1983 Graduate School of Design, Harvard University, Master of Architecture
1979 University of Chicago, Bachelor of ArtsAFFILIATIONS
Member, Toronto Society of Architects
Member, Royal Architectural Institute of Canada
Registered Member, Ontario Association of Architects-

Marco Bonatti
B.Arch., OAA
ASSOCIATE
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Brian Harmer
B.E.S., M.Arch., OAA
ASSOCIATE
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Benjamin Bomben
B.Arch.Sci., M.Arch.
INTERN ARCHITECT
Michael Taylor in Conversation with Behind The Build Podcast
Behind The Build is a new podcast powered by Walden Homes. In each episode, architects and designers offer a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs within the industry plus insight into their own personal journeys.
Listen on: Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube
Awards and Publications
Awards / Publications
Our work has received wide recognition through numerous local, national and international publications and awards.2025
The Globe and Mail Publication - Thornhill Residence
2021
Architecture Masterprize, Honorable Mention in Interior Design / Residential, Russell Hill Road Residence
WIN (World Interiors News) Awards, Shortlist, Russell Hill Road Residence
2019
The Americas Property Awards, Category: Americas – Residential/Condo Interior Design Bay Street Condo
HOW International Design Awards, Merit Awards for Office Design and Grip Wall, Harley-Davidson Canada
BLT Built Design Awards, Winner Interior Design - Houses, Russell Hill Road Residence
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2018
Applied Arts Magazine ‘Design Awards Annual,’ Harley-Davidson Canada Offices
Strategy Magazine ‘Gold – Office Design,’ Harley-Davidson Canada Offices
2015
Ecclesiastical Insurance Cornerstone Awards for Building Heritage, Adaptive Reuse Rehabilitation, Market Street Development
Toronto Urban Design Awards, Award of Excellence, Private Buildings in Context — Low-Scale, Market Street Development
2014
17th Annual ‘Best of Canada’ Design Competition, West Preparatory Junior Public School
Heritage Toronto Awards William Greer Architectural Conservation and Craftsmanship Award of Excellence, Market Street Redevelopment
Interior Design Magazine – Best of Year Honoree Award, West Preparatory Junior Public School
2013
OAA People's Choice Award, House on the Bluffs
OAA Design Excellence Awards, House on the Bluffs
2012
15th Annual ‘Best of Canada’ Design Competition, House on the Bluffs
Illumination Awards, The Illuminating Society of North America, Achievement in Lighting Design (Toronto), HudBay Minerals Inc.
2011
International Property Awards, Category: Americas – Residential Design, House on the Bluffs
2009
Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Civic Pride Award, Auto Workers Community Credit Union
12th Annual ‘Best of Canada’ Design Competition, Armstrong Avenue Residence
OAA Design Excellence Awards, Bishop Street Residence
2007
10th Annual 'Best of Canada' Design Competition, Aquilon Capital Corp. Offices
2nd Annual 'Outside the Box' Awards, Building Magazine, Sunset Cabin
2006
Wood Design Awards, Sunset Cabin
9th Annual 'Best of Canada' Design Awards, Bishop Street Residence
2005
National Post Design Exchange Awards, Sunset Cabin
8th Annual 'Best of Canada' Design Awards, Sunset Cabin, Cedarvale Residence
OAA Architectural Excellence Award, Sunset Cabin
2004
7th Annual 'Best of Canada' Design Awards, House on a Ravine
National Post Design Exchange Awards, House on a Ravine
Careers
If you are interested in working at Michael Taylor Architecture + Design, send an email with your resume and PDF portfolio to: info@mtaylorarch.com.
We thank all those who apply. Only qualified candidates selected for interviews will be contacted. All inquiries will be kept confidential.