ARCHITECTURAL ENGINEERING
ARCHITECTURAL ENGINEERING
Conceptual Design & Feasibility Studies (Engineer's Perspective):
Program Analysis & Space Planning: Translating client needs into functional layouts, considering flow, adjacencies, and user experience from an engineering efficiency standpoint.
Building Massing & Form Development: Exploring building shapes and orientations that optimize energy performance, structural efficiency, and constructability while meeting aesthetic goals.
Preliminary Code Analysis: Early identification of Ontario Building Code (OBC), zoning by-laws, and accessibility requirements (AODA) that will impact design.
Site Analysis & Constraints Integration: Working with civil engineers to understand site topography, solar orientation, wind patterns, and how these inform architectural form and material choices.
Architectural Design Development (Technically Informed):
Integrated Building Systems Design: Developing designs where structural, electrical, and mechanical (involves coordination with M&E consultants) systems are seamlessly integrated with architectural elements. This means considering optimal shaft locations, ceiling heights for ductwork, and structural grids that align with architectural layouts.
Façade and Envelope Design: Engineering the building envelope for thermal performance, waterproofing, air tightness, and durability, while meeting architectural aesthetics. This includes material selection, detailing for constructability, and performance specifications.
Material Selection & Specification: Advising on building materials based on performance (durability, thermal, acoustic), constructability, cost, and sustainability goals.
Accessibility Design (AODA Compliance): Ensuring all architectural designs meet or exceed accessibility standards for universal design.
Construction Documentation (Precise & Coordinated):
Comprehensive Construction Drawings: Producing highly detailed and coordinated architectural drawings (floor plans, elevations, sections, details) that integrate input from all engineering disciplines, minimizing conflicts during construction.
Specifications Writing: Developing clear, concise, and comprehensive specifications for all architectural materials, systems, and finishes.
Building Permit Submissions: Preparing and submitting all required architectural drawings and documentation with the Municipality, for building permits.
Building Performance & Sustainability Integration:
Energy Performance Optimization: Designing for high-performance envelopes, daylighting strategies, and natural ventilation in coordination with mechanical and electrical systems to achieve energy efficiency targets.
Sustainable Material Sourcing: Recommending and specifying environmentally responsible and healthy building materials.
Green Building Certification Support: Guiding clients through processes like LEED, Passive House, or other green building certifications (where applicable).
Construction Administration & Quality Assurance:
Site Reviews & Field Observation: Regular site visits to ensure construction adheres to architectural drawings and specifications.
Shop Drawing Review: Reviewing fabricator and supplier shop drawings for compliance with architectural design intent.
Responding to RFIs & Change Orders: Providing timely and accurate responses to contractor queries to keep the project on schedule.
Vision Realized with Precision: We bridge the gap between creative architectural vision and engineering reality. Our team ensures your design is not only beautiful and functional but also technically sound, highly efficient, and constructible, minimizing design compromises.
Reduced Risk & Conflict: Our integrated approach means architectural design is informed by structural, civil, and electrical considerations from day one. This proactive coordination identifies and resolves potential clashes before construction, saving you time, money, and headaches.
Streamlined Approvals in Toronto: With deep expertise in the Ontario Building Code, Municipal zoning bylaws, and local planning requirements, we prepare comprehensive and compliant architectural submissions that expedite the permit approval process.
Optimized Performance & Lifecycle Value: We design for long-term value, integrating sustainable strategies and high-performance building envelope solutions that contribute to lower operational costs, enhanced occupant comfort, and a reduced environmental footprint over the building's lifespan.
Single Source of Accountability: Benefit from simplified project management with one firm responsible for the architectural and core engineering disciplines. This ensures a unified design approach, clear communication, and seamless project delivery.
Enhanced Constructability & Budget Control: Our architectural designs are developed with a keen understanding of construction methods and costs. We provide practical, buildable solutions that adhere to your budget without compromising design integrity.
Human-Centric & Aesthetic Solutions: Beyond technical excellence, we prioritize the human experience. Our architectural engineering designs create spaces that are aesthetically pleasing, highly functional, comfortable, and inspiring for their occupants.