About Aeras
building homes that make room for what matters most.
our story
AERAS started with a simple idea - that secondary dwellings can foster COMMUNITY.
With community in proximity, whether through intergenerational living or renting, people can grow into their own identity as well.
The founders of AERAS, Timo Koch and Nathan Dirks, were both born in Southern Ontario, but were raised during their formative years in the African countries of Cameroon and Botswana, respectively. Since coming back to Canada they’ve engaged in work creating systemic social change for people experiencing homelessness, as well as newcomers to Canada. Through this ongoing work they’ve seen how lifestyles in Canada can be informed by other cultural expressions, bringing generations and individuals together, starting with the shape of our living arrangements.
You can see some of Timo’s and Nathan’s involvement in fostering community through the non-profit affordable housing organization IMBY, the Botswana NGO Pula Sports Development Association, and through the community development work of the Southridge community in the Niagara Region.
As a part of this ongoing work, a portion of the proceeds of each AERAS build goes to an IMBY non-profit affordable housing secondary dwelling build.
Want to learn more about any of this?
to design and build secondary dwellings that create space for freedom, connection, and whatever comes next.
Mission
What we value
thoughtful design
Homes should feel intentional in every detail - simple, smart, and built to last.
flexible living
Life changes - your home should be able to change with it.
community and connection
More space isn’t always about square footage - it’s about bringing people closer together.
sustainability
Smaller footprints. Smarter materials. Homes built for a better future.
Our Team
While we each derive joy from good design, quality finishes, and creative details, we are rooted in our belief in the power of nurturing healthy communities of well-supported individuals. We’re excited to be experiencing how, in this era, those tangible, design and construction-related joys can expand on these deep-seated, community-oriented beliefs.
founder and construction manager
Timo Koch
Leads Aeras Dwellings with hands‑on building expertise to shape thoughtful, quality homes that connect people and place.
Nathan Dirks
founder and creative director
Leads the vision for AERAS, blending thoughtful design with practical building experience to create homes that feel both beautiful and deeply livable.
Our Approach
By personalizing each interaction, our team works to ensure that our clients and their individual needs are truly heard, informing the details of their build, and the ways we support their transition into their new era of living. The process can be understandably daunting, but we take care of each part of it, from the early dreams to handing over the keys, with a stunning accessory dwelling and vibrant community as the end result.
community work
giving back. building forward.
At Aeras, we believe good design isn’t just about creating beautiful spaces - it’s about creating impact. That’s why a portion of every project goes toward supporting local housing initiatives and organizations working to make houseing mroe accessible, sustainable, and community focused.
ready to get started? let’s talk.