What We Do
From first sketches to final walk-throughs, we're with you every step of the way
Look, we get it - hiring an architect can feel like a big leap. You're probably wondering what exactly you're paying for and whether it's really worth it. Here's the thing: we don't just draw pretty pictures. We solve problems, navigate building codes, push contractors when needed, and make sure your project doesn't turn into one of those renovation nightmares you see on TV. Each service we offer exists because our clients actually need it, not because it sounds good on a website.
Whether you're building your forever home or just need more space for the growing family, we'll design something that actually fits how you live. Not some magazine spread that looks great but makes zero sense for daily life.
We start by asking lots of questions - sometimes annoyingly detailed ones - because we've learned that understanding your morning routine or where you like to read tells us more than any Pinterest board. Custom homes, additions, renovations, laneway houses... we've done 'em all across Vancouver and the lower mainland.
From cozy laneway homes to expansive family estates
Retail spaces, offices, mixed-use developments - they all need to work hard for their owners. We design commercial buildings that don't just look professional but actually support your business goals and make financial sense.
The reality of commercial work is that there's way more red tape, stricter codes, and bigger budgets on the line. We've navigated enough city hall meetings and dealt with enough commercial contractors to know how to get things approved and built without the usual headaches. Plus we'll make sure your tenants or customers actually enjoy being in the space.
Spaces designed for both functionality and impact
Here's where things get interesting. Anyone can slap solar panels on a roof and call it green. We dig deeper - analyzing site orientation, material lifecycles, energy modeling, water management, and all that good stuff. We'll help you get certifications like LEED or Passive House if that's your thing, but honestly, sometimes the best sustainable choices are the ones that just make practical sense. Better insulation pays for itself. Smart window placement reduces your AC bills. We'll tell you what's actually worth doing versus what's just greenwashing.
This is honestly one of the most underrated services we offer. You'd be surprised how many beautiful buildings feel awkward to actually use because nobody thought through the interior flow. We map out how spaces connect, where natural light falls throughout the day, sight lines, furniture layouts - all before a single wall goes up. It's part psychology, part geometry, and completely crucial. We're not interior decorators picking out throw pillows (though we can recommend great ones), we're making sure the bones of your space work perfectly.
Let's be real - construction projects can spiral out of control fast. We've seen it happen. That's why we offer full project management to keep everything on track, on budget, and on schedule. We'll coordinate with contractors, review shop drawings, handle site visits, answer the million questions that always come up, and generally be the bad cop when needed. Think of us as your advocate who speaks fluent contractor and knows when someone's trying to pull a fast one. Most clients tell us this service alone saved them from multiple stress-induced breakdowns.
OK, so this is probably the most fun part for everyone. We create photorealistic 3D renderings and virtual walkthroughs of your project before construction even starts. It's not just eye candy - though it definitely looks cool - it's actually super practical.
When you can see exactly what your space will look like, complete with lighting, materials, and furniture, it's way easier to make decisions. Want to see if that kitchen island should be marble or quartz? We'll show you both. Wondering if the living room feels too dark? We'll render it at different times of day.
This also helps avoid expensive changes during construction because everyone's on the same page from the start. Plus, if you need to get buy-in from a partner, investors, or city planners, these visuals do way more than blueprints ever could. We use the latest software and rendering tech to make sure what you see is what you'll actually get.
Photorealistic previews that eliminate guesswork
Every project's different, but we generally follow a process that's been refined over years of trial and error. First, we listen - really listen - to what you need. Then we explore options through sketches and concepts. Once we've landed on a direction, we develop detailed drawings and specifications. Throughout construction, we're there to make sure everything happens according to plan. It's collaborative, it's iterative, and yeah, sometimes it's messy. But that's how good design happens.
Nope. Some clients just need design work, others want us involved from start to finish. We'll recommend what makes sense for your specific situation, and you decide what fits your budget and comfort level.
Depends on the scope, but typically 2-4 months for residential projects, longer for commercial. We can work faster if needed, but rushing design usually costs more during construction.
Absolutely. We work with contractors all the time - either ones you've already chosen or we can recommend some we trust. Good collaboration makes everyone's life easier.
That's totally normal and honestly preferred. Clients who think they know exactly what they want sometimes box themselves in. We'll help you figure it out through conversation and exploration.