What We Actually Do

Look, we're not gonna throw a bunch of fancy terms at you. Here's the honest rundown of how we help bring your ideas to life - whether it's a cozy home or a full-scale commercial space that doesn't just look good but actually works with the environment.

Six Ways We Can Help

We've broken down our services into what most folks actually need. Every project's different, and honestly, most clients end up combining a few of these depending on where they're at in the process.

Not sure what you need?

Give us a call and we'll figure it out together over coffee.

Let's Talk

Residential Architecture

Whether you're building from scratch or doing a major renovation, we'll help you create a home that actually fits how you live. We've done everything from laneway houses to multi-level family homes, and honestly, the best part is watching people's faces when they see their space come together.

  • Custom home design
  • Renovation planning
  • Laneway & ADU builds

Commercial Building Design

Got a business that needs a physical space? We get it - commercial projects have their own headaches with zoning, accessibility, and making sure the layout actually supports your operations. We've worked on offices, retail spots, and mixed-use buildings across Vancouver.

  • Office spaces
  • Retail design
  • Mixed-use developments

Sustainable Design Solutions

This isn't just slapping solar panels on the roof and calling it green. We're talking passive solar orientation, natural ventilation, materials that won't off-gas toxins into your space, and designs that'll actually lower your utility bills. It's architecture that works with BC's climate, not against it.

  • Energy efficiency analysis
  • Eco-material sourcing
  • Passive design strategies

Interior Space Planning

Ever walked into a space and it just feels... off? That's bad space planning. We figure out how to make every square foot count, where the light should go, how traffic flows, and where you'll actually want to spend time. It's half science, half intuition from doing this for years.

  • Layout optimization
  • Furniture & fixture planning
  • Lighting design

Construction Documentation

Yeah, this is the less glamorous part, but it's super important. These are the detailed drawings and specs that contractors use to actually build your project. We make sure everything's code-compliant, clear enough that there's no confusion on-site, and detailed enough to get accurate bids.

  • Permit-ready drawings
  • Technical specifications
  • Code compliance review

3D Visualization & Renderings

Let's be real - not everyone can look at floor plans and imagine the final space. That's where these come in handy. We create realistic 3D visuals so you can actually see what you're getting before a single nail gets hammered. It's saved plenty of "oh, I thought it'd look different" moments.

  • Photorealistic renders
  • Virtual walkthroughs
  • Material & finish previews

How We Usually Work

Every project's a bit different, but here's the typical journey we take with most clients.

1

Discovery Chat

We grab coffee (or jump on a call) and you tell us what you're thinking. No pressure, just getting to know your vision, budget, and timeline.

2

Concept Phase

We sketch out ideas, play with different approaches, and start shaping something that matches what you've described. Lots of back-and-forth here.

3

Design Development

Once we've nailed the concept, we get into the details - materials, finishes, systems. This is where it starts feeling real.

4

Documentation

We create all the technical drawings and docs needed for permits and construction. It's tedious but necessary stuff.

5

Permits & Approvals

We handle the city paperwork and make sure everything checks out with local requirements. Can take a while, but we're on it.

6

Construction Support

We're available during the build to answer questions, review submittals, and make sure things are going according to plan.

Architecture planning workspace

What Sets Our Approach Apart

Straight Talk, No Jargon

We'll explain everything in plain English. If we use a technical term, we'll tell you what it actually means.

Sustainability That's Practical

We don't push green features that don't make sense for your budget or lifestyle. Everything we suggest has to actually work for you.

You're Part of the Team

This is your project, not ours. We're here to guide and advise, but your input matters at every stage.

Local Knowledge

We know Vancouver's building codes, climate quirks, and what actually works in the Lower Mainland. That local insight saves time and money.

Got Questions About What You Need?

Seriously, just reach out. We're happy to chat about your project and help you figure out the best path forward - even if it means pointing you in a different direction than our services.

Start a Conversation Check Out Our Work

Or give us a shout directly:

(604) 555-0147

info@hollowquintara.info