The Details Matter
Click through to get the real scoop on what each service actually involves. No fluff, just what you need to know.
Architectural Design & Planning
We start by actually listening - novel concept, right? Then comes the fun part: schematic design where we explore options without getting locked in too early. Design development's where we nail down the specifics, and construction documents are where everything gets buttoned up for the build.
Whether it's a new commercial space in downtown Toronto or a residential addition out in the suburbs, we handle the full arc from concept sketches to permit-ready drawings. We also coordinate with engineers, consultants, and whoever else needs to be in the loop.
- Site analysis and feasibility studies
- Conceptual design and 3D visualization
- Detailed construction documentation
- Zoning and code compliance review
Sustainable Building Consultation
Here's the thing about sustainable design - it's not just about slapping solar panels on the roof and calling it a day. We dig into energy modeling, lifecycle assessments, and material selection to actually reduce your building's footprint.
We'll help you navigate LEED certification if that's your goal, but we're equally happy optimizing without chasing plaques. Passive design strategies, smart material choices, and realistic energy targets - that's where the real wins happen. Plus, we've seen enough utility bills to know what actually saves money long-term.
- Energy efficiency analysis and optimization
- Green building certification support
- Renewable energy integration planning
- Sustainable material specification
Interior Space Optimization
Sometimes you don't need a whole new building - you just need to make better use of what you've got. We look at traffic patterns, adjacencies, natural light, acoustics, and all those things that affect how a space actually feels to work or live in.
Commercial clients often come to us when their office layout isn't cutting it anymore. Residential folks usually want to reconfigure without major structural work. Either way, we're problem-solvers first, designers second - though the design part's pretty important too.
- Space planning and layout optimization
- Lighting design and natural light analysis
- Material and finish selection
- Furniture and fixture coordination
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
BIM's basically a digital twin of your building before it gets built. Everything's in there - walls, systems, fixtures - and it all talks to each other. When the HVAC guy needs to run ductwork through where a beam's supposed to go, we catch that in the model, not on site when it's expensive to fix.
We use it for clash detection, quantity takeoffs, construction sequencing, and energy analysis. It's also great for clients who aren't used to reading traditional drawings - walking through a 3D model makes everything click. Plus, the model becomes a useful facility management tool after construction wraps.
- 3D modeling and coordination
- Clash detection and conflict resolution
- Quantity takeoffs and cost estimation
- 4D construction sequencing
Construction Administration
This is where we make sure the contractor actually builds what we designed. Site visits, shop drawing reviews, answering RFIs, handling change orders - it's not glamorous but it's essential. We've learned that being present during construction prevents a lot of headaches down the road.
We're not the general contractor's boss, but we're the owner's representative making sure quality stays on track and the design intent doesn't get "value engineered" into something unrecognizable. Regular site observations, clear communication, and quick decision-making keep things moving.
- Regular site inspections and reporting
- Shop drawing and submittal review
- RFI response and clarification
- Change order evaluation and documentation
Heritage Building Restoration
Toronto's full of amazing old buildings that deserve better than a wrecking ball. We work with heritage structures to preserve what's significant while upgrading performance and functionality. It's a balancing act between respecting history and meeting modern codes and expectations.
This work requires patience, research, and specialized knowledge of traditional construction methods. We coordinate with heritage consultants, structural engineers who understand old buildings, and trades who know their craft. The goal's always to maintain character while making these buildings viable for another century.
- Heritage building assessment and documentation
- Conservation strategy development
- Heritage permit applications and approvals
- Adaptive reuse planning
