about us

SONGER architecture inc (SAinc) was formed by our principal architect Elizabeth Songer in 2011. We established ourselves as a focused architecture and design firm with a particular passion for designing cultural and community spaces.

As a small, local business based in Southern Alberta, our team of creative professionals takes the time to get to know our clients. Our designs are enriched by these client-based collaborations, and ultimately we are able to create innovative spaces that support the client’s needs and budget while reflecting their identity. Our team is involved with every stage of project design from inception to completion—ensuring continuity and accountability on every project we undertake.

SAinc is committed to sustainable design and we approach all of our projects from a LEED perspective and strongly incorporate passive solar and environmental design. We are dedicated to minimizing waste, and in keeping with our Vision we strive to support local business in our community.

Our team members are committed to the local community and we have each been involved on various community boards and initiatives. As a design team, we have given back to the community through pro bono work to Non Profit organizations, and through sponsorship of community events.

our team

Elizabeth Songer

Elizabeth is the Principal Architect and founder of SONGER architecture inc. Elizabeth is excited about shaping our physical surroundings to enhance our experience, express the identity of the space, and engage the community. While each approach to design is unique to the client and project, Elizabeth believes the result should be supportive, functional, long lasting, and beautiful. She considers the entire experience of the space in her design, from flow to acoustic quality to physical comfort. Elizabeth brings extensive experience in theatres (both historic and new), community and cultural centres, as well as in professional buildings.

Elizabeth holds a degree in Art History from Smith College and a Master’s in Architecture from Rice University. She is past president of The Alberta Association of Architects and was recently inducted into the College of Fellows of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (FRAIC). She is the former chair of the Lethbridge Historic Places Advisory Committee and has served on the board for the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge and the Lethbridge Society of Independent Dance Artists. She has written and lectured on architecture for the Allied Arts Council, Lethbridge Historical Society, and the Architecture Now series at the University of Lethbridge.

Photography: © Henriette Plas Photography

Vicki Pietras

Vicki is the interior design lead for SONGER architecture inc. Drawn to creative pursuits and with a love of design, Vicki studied Interior Design Technology at Lethbridge College. Following graduation in 2010, Vicki gained experience in flooring and millwork before joining SONGER architecture inc in 2013. Working at a small firm, Vicki is a part of every aspect of design from programming right through to construction administration.

Vicki believes that well-designed interiors enhance our emotional responses and connections to the places we occupy. Her client-driven focus results in interiors that are a reflection of the people who live and work within those spaces, ensuring that every interior is unique to its client.

Vicki continued her education through a combination of work experience, studies, and a series of exams to receive her National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ). Her passion for sustainable living led her to become a LEED Green Associate.

Mina Ebrahim

Mina is an architect with SAinc. Initially a registered Architect in Iran, Mina immediately began her Intern Architect process upon moving to Canada in 2013. She is a registered AAA Architect and a member of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (MRAIC).

She brings over 10 years of architectural experience to the team including her extensive work in Healthcare facilities. She is adept at space planning, detailing, conceptual design, and material selection. Her fluency in building information modeling (BIM) software takes ideas from conceptual design through into construction documents. Through her many projects, Mina has developed productive working relationships with several municipal authorities in Alberta.

Linnea Kahlke

Linnea is an architectural designer and provides design, drafting and project management experience at SAinc. She excels at detailing and particularly at sectional studies—ultimately translating the design intent into constructible drawings.

After a few years of studying sciences, Linnea became enamored in the human form and how it experiences physical spaces. She completed a Degree in Architectural Science at Ryerson University and Diploma in Architectural Technology at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT).