Discover our architectural design process

From design Process to Interior Architecture, we simplify the construction journey for your project

Curious about how our Ontario architectural design company consistently delivers the builds of your dreams? The secret lies in our streamlined Architectural Design Process. By adhering to this carefully crafted, customer-approved process, we ensure every project achieves outstanding results.

Explore our proven six-step Design Process, where each phase is meticulously planned with a clear purpose and high expectations. This methodical approach guarantees success, project after project, bringing your vision to life with precision and excellence.

Pre-Design and Programming

Before any architectural design work begins, we meet with new clients to thoroughly discuss their precise requirements, cost estimates, and expectations. Our experienced team, including an architectural technologist, will cover key aspects such as budgets, timeframes, and specific project needs. This also includes a detailed review of zoning by-laws and Ontario Building Code regulations. It helps our team to ensure compliance from the start. The information gathered during this phase becomes the project’s design brief. This initial documentation serves as a foundation for the rest of the process. By taking this approach to architectural services, we ensure each project begins on the strongest footing for success.

01

Schematic Design

We develop the architectural design brief to analyze requirements and create initial design proposals. Our project team collaborates with structural engineers, technicians, and designers to ensure the design intent is clear. We create schematic plans and 3D views to offer a clear visualization of the proposed design. We often present multiple alternatives through detailed drawings, sketches, and 3D renderings, enabling clients to understand the design. By employing BIM (Building Information Modeling) on all projects, we enhance collaboration and streamline the architectural process.

02

Design Development

After translating the design brief into preliminary plans, we move to the Design Development Phase. We refine the initial proposal into a comprehensive set of architectural drawings at this stage. Our design teams prepare the site plan, detailed floor plans, elevations, and 3D renderings to ensure alignment with the project’s vision. We coordinate closely with structural, mechanical, and electrical consultants to ensure seamless integration of all components. Collaboration with the client finalizes decisions on energy efficiency strategies, incorporating sustainable practices. After a thorough review, we obtain zoning certificates, and site plan approvals, and address any minor variances, laying the foundation for a successful construction phase

03

Design Development Construction Documents (Detail Design)

We get approval from the municipality and the client for the architectural design development plans. It helps us ensure that the commercial or home architecture design aligns with all requirements. Once approved, we will produce a full set of construction drawings, including specifications, elevations, sections, and construction details. During this stage of the building process, we coordinate with other consultants to obtain the necessary drawings, ensuring everything is in place for a smooth progression. A building permit application can then be made, with our office typically handling it on behalf of clients to streamline the process.

04

Tendering for a Contractor

We prepare the construction tender package at this stage including all the detailed drawings from the previous phase along with tender forms. It ensures that the building project is presented clearly to potential contractors, allowing them to fully understand the design concepts and scope of work. We initiate the bidding process by inviting at least three qualified bidders. By providing each contractor with identical information, we can accurately compare and analyze their submissions. The client must be confident in the chosen contractor’s ability to execute the project to the highest standard. The architect and client may choose to negotiate a tender price with the contractor. It is common for contractors with a proven track record of similar projects. This approach can streamline the process while still ensuring that the building project is in capable hands.

05

During Construction

Taking the role of an independent advisor at this stage. As a residential and commercial architect team, we conduct site reviews at appropriate intervals to ensure construction aligns with the contract documents, specifications, & Ontario Building Code. We produce detailed site reports with the current stage of construction for any deficiencies and outline necessary follow-up actions. We also issue payment certificates, site instructions, & change orders during this phase. This ensures that all financial and procedural parts of the project are managed well. The communication between the client and the construction company is ensured to resolve any issues. It helps the project stay on track in terms of timeline and budget. Our proactive involvement helps safeguard the client's interests and ensures a successful construction project.

06

Bringing Your Vision to Life with our Architectural Design Process

At the end of construction, our team members thoroughly review the work to ensure it meets the approved drawings and specifications. If the project is ready, we issue the Certificate of Substantial Performance. The contractor publishes it as required by the lien act.

We provide an occupancy sign-off letter and, if needed, a deficiency list to address any remaining issues. Once all deficiencies are resolved, the final completion certificate is issued. This process is typically for larger commercial projects, as smaller residential exterior and interior design or construction projects may not require this level of documentation.

Don’t wait! Discuss your dream build now.

WHAT CLIENTS SAY

“Working with Lima Architects Inc was amazing. Fernando is a great person to work with and he helped me design my dream house. He always listens and provides great feedback. I would highly recommend working with this business!”

Gurjit S.

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Harsul Hisham

Engineer

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Teem Southy

Developer

What Clients Say

Gurjit S.

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“We chose lima architects based on a referral from a friend and builder. Our experience dealing directly with lima architects has been very rewarding as we enjoy the patience and professionalism that their team provides. We shared our big picture dream, and the team has made it a reality and now it is time to submit to the city for permits. Very exciting.”

GS

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“Totally impressed!! I have had a pleasure working with Fernando from Lima Architect Inc. As a professional Architect, he listens carefully and understands your taste and needs and while his fee is fair, he's totally professional and responsive. He'll sure get the design of your dream home done, above and beyond your expectations. I cannot say enough good things about Fernando, but all in all, it was a pleasure working with him and I look forward to working with him in the future.”

R Daneshvar

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“I have known Fernando for several years and have hired his services for 2 residential and one commercial jobs. He is very professional, has great ideas and is responsive to adjustments and innovative concepts. Fernando has always been fair with pricing and pays attention to the fine details required. His company is 5 stars in my books!”

Paul M.

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“Lima Architects patiently worked with us to explore the different possibilities on a variety of projects that included commercial properties and residential subdivisions. They carefully took the time to explain the process in its entirety and demonstrated a continued dedication towards maintaining a transparent and collaborative client-architect relationship. We are appreciative of the help, and we have a great deal of respect both for the work the firm does as well as for Fernando and the rest of the team.”

Ghazawan

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“Fernando is a brilliant architect who has a real eye for design! I have worked with him personally and found him and his firm to be most accommodating and wanting to go that extra mile. His insight is invaluable to anyone wanting to design their dream home.”

Dan C

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“We have been working with Lima Architects for almost two years, they have designed a Banquet Hall for us, they are very professional and responsive to every question we have. We are almost getting our permit and we had a lot of help from them to achieve our goal. I would highly recommend them.”

Nada M

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“Fernando and his team designed a new home for our family in Mississauga/Mineola West area. Fernando managed the whole process (Site Plan Approval, Committee of Adjustments, Building Permits) and delivered every step of the way. We were satisfied with his services, and he did great work overall.”