What We Actually Do

We've spent years figuring out how to make buildings work better for the people using them. Here's the stuff we're really good at - no fluff, just what we've learned works.

Residential Design & Planning

Look, everyone's got different ideas about what home should feel like. We sit down with you, figure out how you actually live - not some magazine version - and design spaces that'll make sense 20 years from now. Custom homes, renovations, additions... we've done 'em all across Vancouver and the surrounding areas.

  • Custom home design
  • Space planning & layouts
  • Building permits & approvals

Commercial Architecture

Your business deserves a space that actually works. We've designed everything from boutique retail spots to office complexes, and the key's always the same - understanding how people move through the space and what you're trying to accomplish. Function first, then we make it look good.

  • Retail & hospitality spaces
  • Office buildings & workspaces
  • Mixed-use developments
Architectural planning

Interior Space Optimization

Sometimes you've got the space, it's just not working right. We're pretty obsessed with squeezing every bit of potential out of what you've already got. It's like solving a puzzle, but the pieces are rooms and the picture's your daily life running smoother.

Sustainable Building Solutions

Here's the thing - sustainable doesn't have to mean expensive or weird-looking. We've gotten really good at finding materials and methods that'll cut your energy bills and environmental impact without breaking the bank. Plus, BC's got some great incentives for this stuff.

Project Management & Consultation

Not every project needs full architectural services. Sometimes you just need someone who knows the ropes to walk you through decisions or keep contractors honest. We've been around long enough to spot problems before they become expensive mistakes.

Heritage Building Restoration

Vancouver's got some beautiful old buildings that deserve better than a wrecking ball. We've spent years learning how to bring these structures up to modern standards while keeping what makes them special.

It's tricky work - you're dealing with materials and techniques that aren't used anymore, navigating heritage regulations, and trying to make century-old buildings work for today's needs. But when it clicks? That's when you get something with real character that'll outlast anything new.

  • Heritage assessment & documentation
  • Structural rehabilitation
  • Heritage permit applications
  • Adaptive reuse planning
Heritage building restoration
Project consultation

How We Actually Work

Every project's different, but here's generally how things go down:

1
Initial Chat

We meet up, you tell us what you're thinking, and we figure out if we're a good fit. No pressure, no sales pitch.

2
Site Analysis

We check out the property, look at zoning, understand what's possible and what's gonna be a headache.

3
Design Development

This is where ideas turn into actual plans. We'll go back and forth until it feels right.

4
Documentation & Permits

The not-so-fun but totally necessary part. We handle the paperwork and deal with the city.

5
Construction Support

We stick around to answer questions, review work, and make sure what gets built matches what we designed.

6
Project Completion

Final walkthrough, last tweaks, and you're done. Then we grab coffee and celebrate.

Ready to Start Something?

Whether you've got detailed plans or just a rough idea, let's talk. First consultation's free, and there's no obligation. We'll shoot straight with you about what's realistic and what'll work best for your situation.

Questions People Usually Ask

Honestly? It depends a lot on what you're doing. Residential projects usually run 8-15% of construction costs for full services. Commercial stuff varies more. We can give you a better sense after our first meeting when we understand the scope. We're upfront about fees - no surprises down the road.

For a typical residential project, you're looking at 3-6 months from start to permitted plans. Commercial projects can take longer. The city's permit process is usually the wild card - that can add anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on the complexity and how backed up they are.

Yeah, we take projects throughout the Lower Mainland and sometimes beyond if it's the right fit. We know the building codes and permit processes for most BC municipalities pretty well. Travel time gets factored into larger projects, but we make it work.

Absolutely. We've worked with a bunch of contractors over the years and know who's good at what. We can help review bids, make recommendations, and we're always available during construction to answer their questions and yours. Some of our best projects come from strong architect-builder collaboration.