Where Nature Meets Vision
We're not your typical architecture firm - and honestly, that's kind of the point.
We're not your typical architecture firm - and honestly, that's kind of the point.
Look, I'll be honest with you - I didn't start this firm because I wanted another sleek, glass-box architecture practice in Vancouver. There's enough of those already, right? Back in 2011, after working for some of the big names in the industry, I kept seeing the same thing over and over: beautiful designs that totally ignored their environmental impact. Buildings that fought against nature instead of working with it.
So yeah, I quit. Took about six months off, traveled through Scandinavia studying their approach to sustainable living, then came back with a completely different mindset. Quintharion Velthos Architecture was born out of that frustration and discovery - a place where we could actually do things differently.
Every site tells us something if we're willing to listen. The way light moves, how wind flows, where water wants to go - these aren't problems to solve, they're design partners. We've learned more from observing natural patterns than any textbook ever taught us.
There's this weird assumption that eco-friendly buildings have to look bland or sacrifice comfort. That's just lazy thinking. Our projects prove you can have stunning contemporary design that's also kind to the planet - they're not mutually exclusive.
At the end of the day, someone's gonna live or work in these spaces we create. Their comfort, their health, their connection to their environment - that matters way more than winning awards. Though we've won a few of those too, not gonna lie.
Cookie-cutter solutions drive me nuts. A waterfront property in West Van needs a completely different approach than an urban infill in Gastown. We spend serious time understanding each project's unique context before we even sketch the first line.
Founded the studio with one drafting table, a laptop, and way too much coffee. First project was a residential renovation in Kitsilano that incorporated passive solar design - client thought I was crazy until their heating bills dropped by 60%.
Hired our first two team members and moved into a proper office space. Completed the Greenway Commons commercial project - our first LEED Platinum certification. Started getting calls from clients specifically wanting sustainable design.
Won the BC Sustainable Architecture Award for the Harbourview Residence. Featured in Azure Magazine which was honestly surreal. Team expanded to eight people - all passionate about what we're doing here.
Pandemic hit hard but taught us new ways to collaborate remotely. Launched our heritage restoration division after successfully converting a 1920s warehouse into a net-zero office complex. Proved old buildings can have modern performance.
Completed our largest project to date - a mixed-use development in Surrey integrating community gardens, rainwater harvesting, and natural ventilation. Started consulting on urban planning projects across BC.
Now working with a talented team of 15 architects, designers, and environmental consultants. Every project still gets the same attention and care as that first Kitsilano renovation - just with better coffee and more experience under our belts.
2017, 2021, 2024
2019, 2023
2018
2020
12 Projects
2017, 2022
Every project starts with listening - not just to clients, but to the site itself. We'll spend time there at different times of day, in different weather, understanding how the space breathes.
Then comes the collaboration phase. We don't believe in the "architect as genius" model where we disappear for weeks and reveal some grand vision. You're involved throughout because honestly, you know how you want to live or work better than we do.
Our designs evolve through sketches, models, digital renderings - whatever helps communicate ideas. We push for sustainable solutions but never at the expense of functionality or aesthetics. That balance is where the magic happens.
The construction phase? We're there too. Regular site visits, problem-solving on the fly, making sure the vision translates to reality. We've built relationships with contractors who share our values and craftsmanship standards.
Let's Talk About Your Project
AIBC Member
Architectural Institute of BC
LEED AP Certified
Green Building Accreditation
Passive House Designer
Energy Efficiency Specialist
RAIC Member
Royal Architectural Institute