Tony Atkins

Founder | Creative Director | Catalyst

Penticton, British Columbia, Canada

About

After 5 years of living and working in the Okanagan, Tony has taken his decade+ of global architecture experience and founded Atkins Design Studio; A local studio where resilient and contextual solutions drive projects to new heights. Tony takes great pride in being able to meet with clients to develop the vision and to deliver impactful responses that go beyond the initial intent and expectations. Based in Penticton, BC, Tony works closely with clients to tailor the project delivery process to the project needs. A simplified and collaborative approach allows for creative solutions and alternatives to be quickly explored and modified to address client feedback. Tony has worked on various renovations to commercial, academic and residential projects where he has developed a unique ability to respond to existing conditions. Much like site analysis for new construction, the existing building becomes part of the existing site and provides each project with unique opportunities for responses that create seamless, elegant environments. Over the last decade of his career, Tony has been instrumental in cultivating safe, inclusive, collaborative culture. This is something that he now brings to the community. Over his career Tony has organized annual Art shows, Beach Cleanups, & a bountiful Cricket Feast among many other events. He now engages with the local community and leadership on climate change, accessibility, housing, wildfire safety and resiliency in his project work and the surrounding ecosystem. Current Projects include: The Dream Listening Room Revitalization-Penticton, BC. Currently in for Permit. Recent Projects Include: The Standard Space-Renewal and Revitalization-Penticton, BC. This is now the home of Atkins Design Studio and shows how existing buildings can be given new life through redesign to highlight reuse of reclaimed materials and existing constraints. Recent additions include locally made, recycled paper, accordion walls that provide extra privacy and functionality as the venue continues to serve as a co-work space and event venue. Want to hear more? Connect with Tony to arrange an on-site meeting. The Dragon Boat Pub Revitalization-Penticton, BC. DBP shows how existing buildings can be transformed through thoughtful integration of landscaping and enhanced connection to the environment. Located in the Riparian zone the entire footpint was maintained to avoid disrupting the adjacent lakeside. Tony was awarded over $10K in grants for local charities: Soupateria & SOWINS and is a member of Penticton's 100 men who care initiative.

Experience

  • Creative Director at Atkins Design Studio
    Jun 2025 - Present · 1 yr 1 mo

  • Designer, Technician, Green Team Chair, Safety Coordinator, Young Professional Group BC President. at HDR
    Jun 2015 - Jun 2025 · 10 yrs 1 mo

  • Student Executive, Chair - School of Transportation, Construction & The Environment at BCIT Student Association
    Jun 2014 - Jun 2015 · 1 yr 1 mo

  • Intern Technologist at CEI Architecture
    May 2014 - Aug 2014 · 4 mos

  • Student Practicum at Perkins+Will
    Mar 2013 - Mar 2013 · 1 mo

    Contract Administration, Revit