Richard has practiced architecture since 1983, forming Chmiel Architects in 1996. The firm has been recognized as a design leader in the City of Ottawa and has produced a number of notable and award winning projects and building types in the region. Richard synchronizes classic proportions with modern detail and strives to create a dialog between architectural projects and the existing context in a complementary and seamless manner.

Richard serves as the Principal Architect of Chmiel Architects, overseeing and implementing the design direction of the firm.

Richard Chmiel received his Bachelor of Environmental Design from the University of Manitoba in 1976, his Bachelor of Architecture degree (with distinction) from Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada in 1983, and completed design studies at the prestigious Architectural Association School of Architecture in London, England in 1981.