Got a Question?
Every project has it's set back or rules you didn't know about. From the drawings and blueprints, to the permit and regulations, and to any construction question you may have; we can answer it for you.
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If we can't, then we have connections to local experts to best assist your inquiry. Give us a call if we didn't answer it down below!
Why do I Need an Architect/Designer
While you are allowed to design certain types of building, a small shed for example; you are still required to design to the requirements of the local by-laws and Building Code. Architectural designers and Engineers work with these regulations daily and are constantly being informed and researching regulation changes, design styles and products to better construct your building and keep you safe. We also become certified proving that we know and convey correctly that what we draw will follows at least the minimum allowed structure requirements and will not cause problem when you finally live in or use your building.
How long will my drawings/blueprints take?
We are committed to giving the best experience in a timely manner but it differs depending on the complexity of the building. A standard Agricultural building, like a storage shed, or simple garage or decks takes roughly one week for a full completed set plus any required documents. A livestock barn will take 3 weeks, provided all required mechanical items and openings (doors and windows) are specified. Renovations take closer to three weeks as we work with both new and existing building components, where we also can look at alternative solutions. Simple additions can start at 3-5 weeks, where they can become more complex as more items are added like an extra storey. Custom homes range from 1 months to 2 months depending on the floor plan and exterior look.
These time frames are approximate because no 2 projects are the exact same. While we can use components from other projects to speed up yours, they still need to be modified to your building and site.
Building Efficiency or Available Programs
New ideas and programs come all the time to provide different ways to make your building become more energy efficient for you dollar or green for the environment. These ideas can also reduce your overall costs in the future, like multiple paned windows with a good gas inside or radiant in-floor heat, but may come with more upfront costs in the beginning. Through government incentives and green associations, like LEED and Energy Star, we are more prepared to make our homes and buildings more environmentally conscious and/or affordable. Our main tip, if your interested in being green, would be to research it thoroughly to determine if your budget can handle it now, or if it needs to become something to retrofit in the future.
Is it better to build new or renovate/add onto existing?
As the price of building increases and mortgage rates keep fluctuating, we frequently get this question from everyone. Our answer is always the same: depends on what the state of the existing building and what you want to add to it. If you're building requires services (electricity, water, sewer or septic, gas or propane), an existing build would be more beneficial to start as these will eat up 40% of your overall cost. One should be cautious as well if there was ever an oil spill from an old gas furnace or enough structural damage.
The cost of the renovation and addition and what can be done about the existing layout will also determine if a new build is better. Depending on the structural wall locations, if we can move supports around and how much you want added; it can add up fast. Make sure to properly walk through the project with us, explaining what you'd want to add, remove, alter and how old the building is so we can determine what can be touched or what needs to be left alone.
What is a permit and why do I need it?
A permit is "". It's required through all of Ontario and you may need multiple depending on what the building needs. Everyone needs a building if the building is more than 10 square meters and is not serviceable (think of the little shed in your backyard). Your main list of permits will consist of “permit to construct or demolish” and “Application for Prohibited Activities, Exemptions and Permits” or your local Conservation Authority permit. Your building permit will consist of your building drawings, complete with designer certification form, certified HVAC drawings (if applicable), and Energy Efficiency form (if applicable). Your Conservation Authority permit will only consist of your drawings where they will tell you if there are any protected flora or fauna where you're building that needs to be protected, and provide information and an elevation height if you're in a floodplain or a bank is eroding. More information can be found in your local municipality website and your local Conservation Authority website. If you don't know what Conservation Authority you're apart of, go to https://conservationontario.ca/conservation-authorities/find-a-conservation-authority!
What housing trends are popping up?
Prevalent trends at this time revolve around high ceilings, open concepts, large windows and timber details! While the minimum ceiling height is 7ft, most builds start with 8ft as it assists in minimising wood waste. A high ceiling will also add character to your room and make it feel larger even if it's a flat ceiling, vaulted or trayed ceiling. Be mindful of how high you go and that it can attract an echo if spaces are not filled enough.
Open concept has been making its debut over the past 20 years and connects your common spaces (living room, kitchen, dining room) for a fluid transition. It's especially beneficial for families as you can monitor your children and still cook dinners without having your line of vision blocked off, plus keeps your dining table clear of large food items for big gatherings that require more table space. Your structural items will become larger, like triple trusses in some cases, so we design your home to strengthen these spots.
Picture windows are coming back and are shaping to be triangles and hexagonal to follow your ceiling line. This added light creates more depth in your spaces and provides a sense of awe as you view your outside. And with even more options for skylights and sun tubes, there will always be options for interior spaces to get natural light.
Timber details, like in roof peaks or porches in more Northern areas, may seem daunting but provides a connection to the relaxing outdoors by adding a natural element to your home exterior. This common detail can be made from structural timber logs, stained and cut to have end embellishments, or can be barn board wrap around steel beams and wood members to archive the same look while being able to remove if sufficient cracking happens. Either one gives the same feeling and look but timber logs require a structural lumber yard to certify and cut them, and the wrapped beam approach requires a skilled carpenter to marry the edges and attach them to look seamless.