Who We Are

Aaron's lifelong affinity for the natural world, nurtured through formative experiences in the wilderness of northern Michigan and the majestic landscapes of the American West, serves as the bedrock of the tlrs architectural philosophy. This deep appreciation for nature was further enriched by extensive academic and experiential explorations across the globe, including the study of architecture and urban planning in the diverse cultural contexts of China, Vietnam, France, and Japan. These international perspectives provided a broad understanding of design principles and their adaptation to varying environments and societal needs. This global immersion, coupled with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Lawrence Technological University and a Master of Architecture degree from the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc), laid a strong foundation for a unique and informed approach to the built environment. Furthermore, Aaron holds professional architectural licenses in both California and Michigan, demonstrating a commitment to upholding the highest standards of professional practice in these key regions. ​This well-rounded background led to a pivotal moment during the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic, where the disconnect between conventional building practices and the environment became strikingly apparent. This realization fueled a desire to establish a practice dedicated to creating architecture that not only functions beautifully but also fosters a profound connection with nature, prioritizes occupant health, and minimizes environmental impact through biophilic design and natural building techniques. With experience encompassing a wide spectrum of projects, from crafting bespoke single-family residences to developing sustainable multi-family communities and designing impactful commercial and civic spaces, Aaron brings a versatile understanding to each endeavor. This diverse portfolio is underpinned by core values of genuine collaboration, a dedication to delivering exceptional value to clients, and an unwavering commitment to biophilic design principles that benefit people, the planet, and project stakeholders. Aaron's lifelong affinity for the natural world, nurtured through formative experiences in the wilderness of northern Michigan and the majestic landscapes of the American West, serves as the bedrock of the tlrs architectural philosophy. This deep appreciation for nature was further enriched by extensive academic and experiential explorations across the globe, including the study of architecture and urban planning in the diverse cultural contexts of China, Vietnam, France, and Japan. These international perspectives provided a broad understanding of design principles and their adaptation to varying environments and societal needs. This global immersion, coupled with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Lawrence Technological University and a Master of Architecture degree from the Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc), laid a strong foundation for a unique and informed approach to the built environment. Furthermore, Aaron holds professional architectural licenses in both California and Michigan, demonstrating a commitment to upholding the highest standards of professional practice in these key regions. Recognizing the importance of community and mentorship, Aaron actively engages with aspiring young talent through the ACE Mentorship Program, sharing their passion and guidance with the next generation. Involvement with the Urban Land Institute and the American Institute of Architects underscores a commitment to staying at the forefront of industry best practices and contributing to meaningful dialogue. Furthermore, participation in initiatives like the Help Draw Together program and the rebuild efforts in Altadena demonstrates a profound belief in the power of architecture to serve and uplift communities, particularly in times of need.

Robert Janik, AIA, LEED AP, serves as an Advising Principal with tlrs, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the company's strategic direction and upholding its commitment to excellence through rigorous quality assurance. ​ A highly accomplished architect, Mr. Janik brings a wealth of experience to his current position, underscored by a distinguished career spanning several decades and encompassing a diverse portfolio of large-scale and complex projects. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Oregon and has pursued specialized post-graduate studies in Medical Design at Harvard University's Graduate School of Design. His professional standing is further solidified by architectural licensures in Oregon, Washington, California, Arizona, and Hawaii, an NCARB Certificate, and his status as a LEED Accredited Professional and a member of the American Institute of Architects, Regional and Urban Design Committee. Throughout his career, Mr. Janik has demonstrated exceptional skills in planning, design, and management. He has a proven ability to prepare and present sustainable design solutions that meet aesthetic and functional goals within client timetables and budgets. His expertise covers a wide array of project types, including transit, institutional/government/military, education/laboratory/theater, healthcare, office, mixed-use retail/residential, and retirement projects. He is proficient in all phases of architectural design, from programming and feasibility studies through construction administration and warranty resolution. As a manager, Mr. Janik has consistently taken initiative in business development, marketing, and sub-consultant selection. He is adept at authoring and monitoring contracts, budgets, and schedules, implementing quality assurance programs, and mentoring staff. His leadership in guiding design teams and effectively communicating with clients, staff, sub-consultants, governmental officials, and the public has been a hallmark of his career. Mr. Janik's extensive experience includes senior roles at prominent architectural and engineering firms. As a Senior Transit Project Manager/Architect at HDR Engineering, Inc. in Los Angeles, he led transit architecture design and procurement for multiple Southern California offices, overseeing major projects such as the Honolulu High Capacity Transit Corridor stations and contributing to the California High Speed Rail project. He also served as a Project Manager/Design Architect for Anil Verma Associates, Inc., focusing on California High Speed Rail conceptual station design and QA/QC for the Bob Hope Airport Intermodal Transit Center. His career includes managing his own private practice, Robert Janik AIA, LEED AP, Architect, where he served as principal design architect and management consultant for sustainable mixed-use, institutional, education, healthcare, and transit projects. At SB Architects, an international hospitality and mixed-use design firm, he was a Senior Associate and Senior Project Manager, responsible for the design management of large complex projects and chairing the "SB Green Team" sustainability committee. Notable projects during this time included the Cottonwood Mall Mixed-Use Redevelopment and the LEED Silver Verdant Apartments. Earlier in his career, Mr. Janik was a Partner at Soderstrom Architects, P.C. for thirteen years, where he was a Principal Architect responsible for designing educational, transit, retail, office, healthcare, and residential projects. His work there garnered several awards, including the Portland BEST Business Award for Best Innovation of Energy Efficiency and the Ralph Robson Region XI Technology Award for the Swindells Interactive Laboratory Building at the University of Portland. He also held design architect roles at Otak, Inc., where he contributed to award-winning projects like the Beaverton Transit Center, and at Skidmore Owings & Merrill Architects.​ Mr. Janik's career began with an early role as an Engineer in Training for Wright Schuchart Harbor Contractors, Inc. His consistent track record of promotions, such as to Associate and then Partner at Soderstrom Architects, and to Associate and Senior Associate at SB Architects, along with numerous design awards throughout his career, attest to his capabilities and contributions to the field of architecture.

Doreen Ensign Olko currently holds the crucial positions of Chief Financial Officer and Office Manager at tlrs. In this capacity, she is entrusted with the comprehensive oversight of the organization's financial health and operational efficiency. Her responsibilities include meticulously coordinating all billing processes and managing the intricate financial matters essential to tlrs's smooth functioning and strategic objectives. This role demands a high level of financial acumen, organizational skill, and attention to detail, ensuring the fiscal integrity and administrative stability of the company. Before transitioning to her current role, Olko forged a distinguished and pioneering career in law enforcement spanning several decades. Her journey in this field began with a landmark achievement as the first woman patrol officer for the Ingham County Sheriff's Department, breaking new ground for women in policing in the area. She further honed her skills and leadership abilities at the Meridian Township Police Department, where she diligently rose through the ranks to attain the positions of Captain/Lieutenant and Commander of the Staff Services Division, demonstrating significant administrative and operational expertise. Her law enforcement career culminated in an impressive 18-year tenure as the Chief of Police for the Auburn Hills Police Department. As Chief, Olko was a forward-thinking leader, recognized as one of only a handful of female Police Chiefs in Michigan at the time. She was a strong advocate for community policing initiatives and championed the principles of procedural justice, emphasizing fair and respectful treatment for all community members. Under her leadership, the Auburn Hills Police Department was noted for having a higher percentage of female officers than the national average. A testament to her esteemed position in the field, she was appointed by the Michigan Governor to serve as a Commissioner on the Michigan Commission of Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES). Chief Olko also initiated a blog to foster better communication and understanding between the police department and the community. Her commitment to law enforcement extended to her educational background, having earned a Bachelor of Science from Michigan State University's School of Criminal Justice and a Master's Degree in Liberal Studies from Eastern Michigan University. Even after her retirement from policing, she has continued to speak on important issues such as youth assistance programs.

Genevieve "GG" Olko, a charming French Bulldog-Boxer mix, holds a special place at tlrs in Hermosa Beach: Chief Distractor. Since joining the team, GG has cultivated an office culture punctuated by joyful interruptions and the occasional, but relentless chase of that pesky tail. GG's hard working days involve a playful approach to office dynamics. She might interrupt design discussions with an enthusiastic demand for catch (a tennis ball is her preferred tool), or her powerful sniffs could lead to vital "olfactory inspections" of new samples. Her full-speed sprints along the Hermosa sands embody the boundless energy tlrs aims to infuse into their designs. Despite her self-appointed role, GG is the heart of tlrs. Her spontaneous affection, comical snorts, and undeniable joy remind everyone to embrace levity. While she might occasionally "rearrange" supplies or have a fondness for untied laces, GG's presence fosters a warm, creative, and unique atmosphere. In a practice dedicated to human-centered design, GG ensures that the human element – with all its quirks and joys – is always present.