Who We Actually Are

The folks who get excited about 100-year-old timber beams and LEED certifications in the same breath

Our studio workspace

Our Story (The Real One)

Look, we didn't start out planning to become heritage restoration specialists. It just kinda happened when our founder, David Chen, bought this old 1912 warehouse in Gastown and fell completely in love with the Douglas fir beams and brick detailing that'd been hidden behind drywall for decades.

That was back in 2011. Fast forward to now, and we're this weird hybrid studio that's equally comfortable drafting plans for a net-zero passive house in North Van as we are carefully restoring original crown molding in a designated heritage building downtown.

We've got about 30 people now - a mix of folks who geek out over historical building codes and others who can't stop talking about the latest in photovoltaic glass technology. Somehow, it works.

What We're About

Not your typical architecture firm values statement

Respect for What Was

Every old building's got a story, and we're not about to bulldoze history just 'cause it's easier. If there's original material worth saving, we'll find a way to keep it.

Actual Sustainability

Yeah, everyone says they're sustainable now. We mean it - from material sourcing to energy modeling to making sure your grandkids can still use the building in 2075.

No BS Communication

Architecture jargon is annoying. We'll explain things in actual English, answer your texts, and not disappear for weeks during construction.

The Team

People you'll actually be working with

David Chen

David Chen

Principal Architect, AIBC

Started this whole thing after getting obsessed with heritage timber framing. Still gets way too excited about mortise-and-tenon joints. Licensed in BC since 2006, teaches occasionally at UBC's School of Architecture.

Sarah MacDonald

Sarah MacDonald

Senior Architect, Heritage Specialist

Came to us from a gig at Parks Canada. She's your go-to if you're dealing with anything built before 1950. Knows more about heritage designation processes than anyone should.

Marcus Rodriguez

Marcus Rodriguez

Lead Designer, Sustainable Systems

The energy modeling wizard. If you want a Passive House or net-zero build, Marcus'll make it happen without breaking your budget. LEED AP BD+C certified, kinda obsessed with heat recovery ventilation.

Jennifer Wu

Jennifer Wu

Project Manager, Commercial Division

Keeps everything actually running on time. Former construction manager, so she knows when contractors are BSing. Won't let you make decisions that'll haunt you during the build phase.

Tom Blackwood

Tom Blackwood

Architect, Residential Projects

Residential specialist who actually listens to what you want instead of imposing his vision. Great at fitting modern amenities into heritage homes without it looking weird. Builds furniture on weekends.

Priya Sharma

Priya Sharma

Urban Planning Consultant

Handles all the city hall stuff - zoning, variances, development permits. Used to work for Vancouver's planning department, so she knows exactly how to navigate the bureaucracy.

Plus About 24 More People

We've got designers, technologists, interns, admin staff, and our office dog Cooper who thinks he's the real boss. Everyone here actually cares about the work, which sounds cheesy but it's true.

Get In Touch
Awards and recognition

Some Recognition We've Gotten

We don't do this work for awards, but it's nice when people notice. Here's a few things that've happened:

  • Lieutenant Governor's Award for Heritage Conservation (2022)
  • Canadian Green Building Award - Residential Category (2021)
  • AIBC Innovation in Architecture Award (2020)
  • Heritage BC Award of Honour (2019, 2023)
  • Vancouver Heritage Commission Recognition (Multiple Years)

More importantly, we've got clients who still grab coffee with us years after their projects wrapped up. That's the real measure.

How We Work

The actual process, no fluff

1
Initial Chat

We meet, walk the site if there is one, talk about what you're trying to do. No charge for this - we're just seeing if we're a good fit.

2
Concept Phase

Sketches, mood boards, rough plans. We explore options together. This is where we figure out what's actually possible within your budget.

3
Design Development

Getting into details - materials, systems, dimensions. We're coordinating with engineers, doing energy modeling, making sure everything actually works.

4
Construction Support

We're on site regularly, answering contractor questions, dealing with the inevitable surprises. We don't disappear once permits are issued.