With a LEED® accredited architect, LEA takes pride in being leaders in ecologically based design, resulting in environmentally responsible developments that do not compromise design excellence.

As a part of the preliminary phase of our architectural design process, the Site Analysis evaluates the climactic, geographical, historical, legal, and infrastructural context of a specific site.

The study of each Sites unique elements, such as solar orientation, wind patterns, soil composition, natural or man made physical features and topography, noise, pollutants, views, cultural or historical conditions, zoning, circulation and utilities, are all contributing factors used to develop a site-specific design resulting in a cohesive architecture derived from an appreciation for and an understanding of the land it sits on.

Also known as statements of requirements, identify the needs and expectations of all parties involved in the project.

Provided information will establish a clear vision of the building’s objectives, constraints, relationships, cost, time, performance, optimization, scope of the project, as well as the size and type of space needed.

The time and money invested in programming will provide the design team and stakeholders with a clear idea of a building’s purpose, resulting in more effective design solutions.

Project phase during which the client’s design criteria determined in the pre-design phase are resolved into architectural form.

Throughout schematic design a number of design concepts may be explored in order to test the client’s program by studying various planning and massing relationships, within the constraints of the project budget.

Ideally, schematic design will conclude with a design that is the best possible synthesis of all the factors being considered, after which it would form the foundation upon which design development and final construction drawings are developed.

Project phase during which the selected concept design, developed during the schematic design phase, is refined and developed in more detail. This usually entails the continued collaboration with various consultants and the coordination of architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical and civil designs.

At this stage it is critical to resolve the design of all major building components.

During this time LEA may also guide clients through obtaining planning approvals and permits from authorities having jurisdiction.

Construction documents are the clients, architect’s, engineers, contractors, and building officials primary reference and resource during construction.

The development of construction drawings and specifications flow directly from the design development documentation that was previously produced and approved by the client.

During this stage the finalized design is resolved and completed to meet all regulatory and building code compliance requirements in order to be issued as bid or contract documents.

During this phase of the project, LEA administers the tendering process in a fair and respectful manner. Issuing any necessary addendums and providing comprehensive tender evaluations and contractor recommendation services.

Generally at the start of construction, the contractor is introduced to the project and takes on the responsibility and control of the build.

The architects responsibilities during this phase support both the client’s and the contractor’s interests in the successful completion of the construction phase and are essential in determining that the work is in general conformity with the contract documents and that clear and consistent communication is provided between the client, consultants and the contractor.

As the construction of a project nears completion and the warranty period begins, the architect continues to provide professional services to the client through performing deficiency reviews and notifying the contractor of items to be corrected.

LEA also provides all the necessary services required for occupancy and the final takeover and transition of the building by the owner.

LEA offers full interior design and decorating services providing our clients with mindfully designed spaces built for their individual lifestyle.

Our integrated approach aligns both the architecture and interiors to create a cohesive environment at all junctions resulting in a wholistic and timeless design.

LEA offers full landscape design and procurement services as a part of our site-specific design approach. We believe that landscape design should enhance the landscapes natural features and seamlessly integrate with the architecture, native terrain and flora around it.

Provide a glimpse of the end project goal. Visualization can bring a concept or 2D drawing to life, allowing easy communication between the architect and the client, while providing a visual tool that helps keep the client’s vision inline with the design created.

Establish the Client’s budget and goals. LEA can procure detailed ‘Class A, B, C and D’ construction cost estimates.

A systematic review, and report on the state of a building’s systems (plumbing, HVAC, electrical), structure (floors, walls, roofs, windows and doors), finishes/fixtures and overall general condition.

Based on the site review, the BCA report includes a description of each building component and identifies any issues or deficiencies, as well as the expected cost of remedy.

LEA’s BCA services enables clients to forecast their costs of ownership and ensure timely and appropriate maintenance.

As a part of our masterplanning services LEA works with communities at various scales to develop overarching spatial concepts and layouts used to guide future growth and development as a part of a long-term plan from small scale groups of buildings to regional urban fabrics.

Assisting with public presentations outlining the conceptual design, timelines and proposed work. Ensuring that key municipal, provincial and federal organizations, the general public and the media are kept abreast of a project’s direction and development.

Providing miscellaneous design solutions at various scales, from custom design mailboxes to original works of art.