Who We Are

We're not your typical suit-and-tie architecture firm. Sure, we design buildings, but what really gets us out of bed each morning is the challenge of making spaces that actually work with the planet instead of against it.

Our Philosophy Meet the Team
Studio interior
EST. 2016

From Sketch to Structure

Started in a cramped Vancouver loft with three drafting tables and way too much coffee, we've grown into something we're pretty proud of. The journey hasn't been a straight line - more like one of those Frank Gehry designs, honestly.

Back in 2016, our founder had this wild idea that sustainable architecture didn't have to look like a science experiment. We wanted to create buildings that people actually wanted to live and work in, while still respecting the environment. Turns out, a lot of folks felt the same way.

Today, we've designed over 80 projects across BC and beyond. Every single one taught us something new - sometimes the hard way. But that's what keeps this work interesting.

80+

Completed Projects

23

Awards & Recognition

How We Actually Work

Forget the architectural jargon for a minute. Here's what we really believe in, straight up.

Nature Knows Best

We've spent years studying how natural systems work - air flow, thermal mass, water cycles. Nature's been doing this for millions of years, so yeah, we're gonna take some cues from the expert. Passive design isn't just trendy, it's common sense that somehow got forgotten along the way.

Your Space, Your Story

We're not here to impose our vision on your project. Had a client once tell us their favorite spot in the old house was this weird corner by the window. Guess what became the focal point of the new design? It's your life, your memories - we're just here to give them the right frame.

Details Matter, A Lot

Anyone can slap together a floor plan. But the way light hits a kitchen counter at 7am, or how a hallway feels when you walk through it - that's where the real work happens. We obsess over this stuff so you don't have to, but you'll definitely notice the difference.

No Surprises, Ever

Construction's complicated enough without mystery fees or vague timelines. We keep you in the loop - sometimes probably too much, but our clients appreciate knowing exactly where their project stands. If something goes sideways, you'll be the first to know, not the last.

Our Process (The Real Version)

We could give you some polished, corporate-speak version, but here's actually how a project unfolds when you work with us.

1
Getting to Know You

Coffee, site visits, lots of questions. We're trying to understand not just what you want, but why. That "why" is everything.

2
Sketches & Ideas

Rough concepts, mood boards, maybe some embarrassing hand sketches. This is where we explore possibilities without commitment.

3
Making It Real

Detailed drawings, permits, specs. The less glamorous stuff that ensures your dream doesn't become a nightmare halfway through construction.

4
Bringing It Home

We stick around during construction. Site visits, problem-solving, making sure what gets built matches what we designed. Till the keys are in your hand.

The Folks Behind the Blueprints

A mix of dreamers, problem-solvers, and caffeine enthusiasts who happen to be pretty good at architecture.

Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen

Principal Architect & Founder

Started this whole thing after getting frustrated with how wasteful mainstream architecture was. Studied at UBC, worked at a couple big firms, then decided to do it differently. Still gets excited about well-placed windows.

Marcus Rodriguez
Marcus Rodriguez

Senior Architect & Sustainability Lead

The guy who actually knows all the building codes by heart - kinda scary, honestly. Passionate about passive house design and has a minor obsession with thermal bridging. Makes sustainability look easy.

Emma Takahashi
Emma Takahashi

Lead Interior Designer

Joined us from Tokyo three years ago and completely changed how we think about interior spaces. Has an uncanny ability to know exactly what a room needs. Also makes the best matcha lattes in the office.

David Okonkwo
David Okonkwo

Project Manager

Former contractor who switched sides - brings real-world construction knowledge that saves everyone headaches. Keeps projects on track and budgets in check. Somehow stays calm even when permits get delayed.

Zoe Beaumont
Zoe Beaumont

Junior Architect

Fresh energy and fresh ideas - graduated top of her class at McGill. Way better at 3D modeling than the rest of us. Keeps pushing us to try new materials and techniques. The future's in good hands.

Robert Kim
Robert Kim

Heritage Restoration Specialist

Brought on when we started getting into restoration work. Has this amazing ability to see what a building used to be and what it could be again. History buff who makes old buildings relevant for today.

What Clients Say

We don't usually toot our own horn, so we'll let them do it for us.

Video testimonial

"Working with OTV wasn't what I expected - in the best way possible. They actually listened when I said I wanted the house to feel connected to the garden. No ego, no pushing their agenda. Just smart solutions that made sense."

Jennifer Park
Jennifer Park
West Vancouver Residence
Video testimonial

"As a business owner, I've dealt with a lot of contractors and architects. These folks are different - they get that time is money, but they also won't cut corners. Our new office building came in on budget AND ahead of schedule. Didn't think that was possible."

Thomas Bergstrom
Thomas Bergstrom
Yaletown Commercial Project

Recognition & Stuff

Look, awards are nice and we're not gonna pretend we don't appreciate them. But honestly, the best recognition is when a client invites us back for their next project - that's the real trophy.

That said, here's some of the official recognition we've gotten along the way:

  • BC Sustainable Architecture Award

    Kitsilano Net-Zero Home, 2022

  • Canadian Architect Award of Merit

    Gastown Heritage Restoration, 2021

  • AIBC Emerging