Those experiences shaped his practical approach to engineering and helped ignite a passion for creating spaces that become experiences. He is drawn to places that inspire and empower the people within them while leaving a lighter mark on the land they sit on.

Over more than six years in practice, Bruen has moved fluidly between structural engineering, design, and project management. He has contributed to grassroots community housing developments and Indigenous-led initiatives across British Columbia. Before joining Metaphystations, he worked with RJC Engineers and WSP.

When not engineering, he can be found climbing, kayaking, painting, free-diving, blacksmithing, carving, helping out around the farm, or doing something else completely.

The practice grew from seeing sustainability ambitions diluted by conventional processes, and from a desire to better support clients determined to push further.

With more than 17 years in practice, Mark has contributed to over 160 construction projects across Canada and internationally. His work spans sustainability concept homes, mass timber community buildings, crafted structures, and green infrastructure. It ranges from small, hands-on projects to critical infrastructure.

Across this work, he consistently instigates more holistic and generative approaches to engineering. He pays attention to how structures participate in ecological, social, and spiritual systems.

Before founding Metaphystations, Mark worked with multinational contractors on projects including the LEED-certified Winnipeg Airport Terminal with EllisDon and Highway 2000 in Jamaica with Bouygues Travaux Publics. He later spent several years with Associated Engineering. There, he contributed to infrastructure and community projects, including the award-winning Nanaimo Reservoir No.1 & Energy Recovery Facility, the Government of Northwest Territories’ climate change risk assessment tool, and Leonardo DiCaprio’s Blackadore Caye restorative eco-resort.

Through Metaphystations, Mark now focuses on generative projects led by courageous and determined owners and communities.

With work–life balance baked into the business plan, Mark also spends time improvising, adventuring, participating in festivals, driving heritage streetcars, swing dancing, and practicing yoga.