What We Actually Do

We've spent years figuring out how to make buildings that don't just look good but actually work with the environment instead of against it. Here's how we can help bring your vision to life.

LEED Accredited Passive House Certified

How We Work With You

Look, every project's different, but we've developed a process that keeps things moving without losing sight of what matters. We're not gonna throw a bunch of jargon at you - just honest collaboration from sketch to completion.

Average Project Timeline

Residential: 4-8 months
Commercial: 6-14 months
Heritage Work: 8-18 months

01

Discovery & Site Analysis

First things first - we need to understand your space and what you're trying to achieve. We'll walk the site together, talk about your needs (and maybe some wants), and start thinking about how the building can respond to its surroundings. This isn't just measuring stuff; we're looking at sun patterns, wind flow, existing vegetation, neighborhood context.

02

Concept Development

This is where it gets fun. We'll sketch out ideas, play with different approaches, and start seeing how form and function can come together. You'll get a few different concepts to react to - nothing's set in stone yet. We're exploring possibilities and testing ideas against both your vision and environmental goals.

03

Design Refinement

Once we've landed on a direction, we dig deeper. Materials, systems, details - this is where sustainability really gets baked into the design. We'll run energy models, study daylighting, figure out water management. You'll see the design evolve from concept to something you can actually build.

04

Documentation & Permits

Yeah, the paperwork phase. But it's necessary. We'll create construction documents that contractors can actually work from and navigate the permit process with the city. Vancouver's got its quirks when it comes to approvals, but we've been through it enough times to know how things work.

05

Construction Support

We don't just hand off drawings and disappear. We're there during construction for site visits, answering questions, making sure the design intent comes through. Things always come up during a build - we help solve problems as they happen and keep the project on track.

What We're Good At

Each service has its own challenges and rewards. We've built our practice around doing a few things really well rather than being mediocre at everything.

Residential Design

Residential Design

Homes are personal. We get that. Whether you're looking at a new build, renovation, or addition, we approach each project thinking about how you actually live - not just how things look in photos. Natural light, airflow, connection to outdoor spaces, energy efficiency... these aren't extras, they're fundamentals. We've done everything from laneway houses to full custom homes across the Lower Mainland, and honestly, there's nothing quite like seeing a family move into a space that just works for them.

Custom Homes Renovations Laneway Houses Multi-Family
Commercial Architecture

Commercial Architecture

Commercial projects need to work hard - they've gotta be functional, attractive to clients, and make financial sense. We've done offices, retail spaces, mixed-use developments. The trick is balancing all the stakeholders while still pushing for sustainable solutions that'll save money in the long run.

Sustainable Building Solutions

Sustainable Building Solutions

This isn't a separate service, really - it's woven into everything we do. But sometimes clients need specific expertise: LEED certification, Passive House standard, net-zero design, or just figuring out how to make an existing building perform better. We've got the training and real-world experience to make it happen.

Interior Space Planning

Interior Space Planning

Good architecture doesn't stop at the walls. How spaces flow together, where natural light lands at different times of day, how rooms can adapt as needs change - that's what interior planning's about. We work with the shell and the interior as one integrated thing, not separate projects. And yeah, we can help with finishes and fixtures too, making sure everything aligns with your sustainability goals and aesthetic vision.

Space Optimization Material Selection Lighting Design
Project Management

Project Management

Someone's gotta keep all the moving parts organized. We can manage the whole process - coordinating consultants, tracking budgets, scheduling, dealing with contractors, handling changes. It's not the most glamorous part of the job, but it's what keeps projects from going sideways. We've learned (sometimes the hard way) how to anticipate problems before they become expensive ones.

Heritage Restoration

Heritage Restoration

Vancouver's got some beautiful old buildings that deserve respect. Heritage work is its own specialty - understanding historical construction methods, working within strict guidelines, figuring out how to upgrade systems without destroying character. It takes patience and a genuine appreciation for what came before. Plus, adaptive reuse is one of the most sustainable things you can do.

Certifications That Actually Matter

We're not into collecting credentials just to have 'em on the wall. These certifications represent real training and proven methodologies that make buildings better. They're tools we use to deliver measurable results.

LEED AP

Accredited Professional for sustainable design standards

Passive House

Certified Designer for ultra-efficient buildings

AIBC Member

Architectural Institute of British Columbia

Net Zero Ready

Trained in net-zero energy design principles

What to Expect When Working With Us

We believe in transparency. Here's the straight story about timelines, costs, and how we handle the practical stuff.

Realistic Timelines

Good design takes time. We're not gonna rush through the creative process just to hit arbitrary deadlines. That said, we're organized and we stick to schedules once they're set. Initial consultations usually happen within a week. Concept phase might take 3-6 weeks depending on complexity. Full design development and documentation? Figure 2-4 months for most residential projects, longer for commercial or heritage work.

How We Handle Fees

We typically work on a percentage of construction cost for full projects, or hourly for consultations and smaller scope work. You'll get a detailed proposal upfront - no surprises. Yeah, sustainable design might cost a bit more in architectural fees, but the operational savings usually pay that back within a few years. We're happy to talk through the economics of different approaches.

Communication Style

We're pretty responsive. Email's usually best for detailed stuff, phone calls for quick questions. We'll schedule regular check-ins during the design phase so you're never wondering what's happening. And we actually listen - if something's not working for you, tell us. Better to course-correct early than end up with something you're not happy with.

Team Collaboration

Architecture doesn't happen in a vacuum. We work with structural engineers, mechanical consultants, landscape architects, lighting designers - whoever the project needs. We've got trusted people we bring in regularly, but we're also cool working with your preferred consultants. The key is everyone pulling in the same direction.

Consultation

Let's Talk About Your Project

Got an idea you're kicking around? A problem that needs solving? We offer initial consultations to see if we're a good fit for each other. No pressure, just honest conversation about what's possible.

Whether you're starting from scratch or figuring out what to do with an existing building, we can help think through the options. Sometimes that means a full architectural project, sometimes it's just pointing you in the right direction.

Quick Contact

(604) 555-0187

info@windarquinthale.info