At Urbis, building homes isn’t just business; it’s personal. Family owned and operated, we approach every project with the same level of care and commitment we would for our own homes. In fact, both Urbis Partners live in an Urbis designed and built home.

Our team understands both the excitement and challenges that come along with the homebuying journey. As such, our clients benefit from a design and build process rooted in trust, understanding, and an unwavering dedication to quality.

We know firsthand that a home is so much more than just a roof and four walls—it’s where life’s most important moments happen. We ensure that every Urbis home reflects the same level of detail and craftsmanship we would expect for ourselves because, to us, every Urbis home feels like our own.

Kitchen in a custom Urbis Infill Homes build in Highlands in Edmonton.

A Legacy of Design

Urbis was founded on a passion for great design and a desire to disrupt Edmonton’s stereotypical design and build process. Led by siblings Mike Arndt and Katie Warwa, the duo carries on the legacy of their father, Rick Arndt, a retired Architect with over 40 years of experience.

The Arndt family has been in Edmonton for over 100 years, deeply committed to the city’s growth and enhancing its urban landscape, one project at a time.

The family’s journey into homebuilding started organically, with Mike first working alongside his father, Rick, building and developing in the lakeside community of The Estates at Waters Edge. From there, they identified an opportunity in the Edmonton infill market, testing the waters with an initial few projects including a renovation for Mike himself.

The success of their first few homes sparked a realization that there was a demand for quality-built homes that keep innovative design at the forefront, with a collaborative customer-focused process. Urbis was born from this vision.

Exterior Architecture of a custom build in Glenora by Urbis Infill Homes in Edmonton.

Mike Arndt: A Customer-First Approach

Mike Arndt, Partner and Lead of Sales and Marketing at Urbis Infill Homes in Edmonton.

As Partner and Lead of Business Development, Sales, and Marketing, Mike brings nearly 20 years of home building experience to Urbis. With a background in business, he excels in shaping the company strategy, fostering relationships, and ensuring an unparalleled client experience.

“My favourite part of my role is that first touch point, chatting with people about what they’re looking for. It’s about answering questions and giving people what they need. I’m a helper first. It’s getting a sense of if we’re a good fit for you and you’re a good fit for us. Because that’s what’s going to make it a successful relationship and project.” – Mike Arndt

Beyond the homes themselves, it’s the family dynamic that makes Mike’s work even more fulfilling. He’s always wanted to work with family, valuing the opportunity to spend more time with them day to day. His willingness to step in wherever needed allows him to thrive in a business where roles can overlap, and innovation is always at the forefront.

“Starting Urbis was a family conversation. We didn’t necessarily want to reinvent the wheel, but we wanted to look at things differently and see how we could change people’s lives. And here we are today still working together. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Katie Warwa: Bringing Vision to Life

With a Masters of Architecture and over 15 years of experience in the design and construction industry, Katie is the creative force behind Urbis. Initially pursuing her career out of province, she quickly felt drawn back home to contribute to the family business.

“The pull of the family business brought me back to Edmonton where I believe there’s lots of opportunity and a great community of people. I brought a skillset of design to the table, sort of following in my dad’s footsteps.” – Katie Warwa

Katie Warwa, Partner and Lead of Design and Operations at Urbis Infill Homes in Edmonton.

As Partner and Lead of Design and Operations, Katie ensures that every Urbis home is both beautiful and functional. She works closely with clients to create timeless, thoughtful designs, drawing from her background in both architecture and interior design.

Like Mike, Katie had her own home designed and built by the Urbis team, giving her firsthand insight into the client experience. Not only did she end up with a home she loves, but she also gained a deeper understanding of how to guide homeowners through smart, proactive decisions that will help them love their homes for years to come.

Dining and kitchen area in an Urbis Infill Homes custom build in Edmonton.

Stairwell in an Urbis Infill Homes custom build in Edmonton.

Katie’s favourite part of her day? Possession day.

“We have a tradition of wrapping the team up, getting everyone on site for possession day so we can all tour the home, be super proud of what we did, and then celebrate with our clients. It’s as exciting for us as it is for them. There’s a lot of hard work and time put into building dream homes for clients and we love to be there to hand over the keys and celebrate.”

The Urbis Difference

Choosing Urbis means working with a team that is personally invested in every home we build. While Rick has since retired, his influence in the family business remains, continuing to mentor the team on select projects. With Mike’s business expertise, Katie’s design leadership, the foundation set by their father, Rick, and a skilled team of hired staff, Urbis brings a thoughtful and innovative approach to home building in Edmonton.

A deep connection to family, design, and the city they love is what sets Urbis apart, building homes where you can truly Live Without Compromise.

“One of our core values is to ‘enjoy the journey, love what you do’ and I feel like working in the family business really allows us to do that. We’ve had a lot of fun over the years,” says Katie.

“We’re lucky,” adds Mike. “Super fortunate.”

Interested in designing or building your new home with Urbis? Reach out to us to learn more about our custom home building process or browse our current quick possession options available for sale.