Meet The Team

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.

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

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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.

Elaine received her Bachelor of Architecture degree from Carleton University in 1992 and has been with Chmiel Architects since its inception in 1996.

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Her experience includes new commercial construction, building modernization, interior design, and residential construction. She has a strong understanding of green building design and has managed both LEED-NC and LEED-CI projects.

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Her comprehensive approach to architecture allows her to visualize and develop projects on a holistic basis, as she is keenly aware that interior fit-up requirements often influence the base building infrastructure and vice versa. Elaine is a strong advocate of collaborative processes and effective communication, which she feels facilitates successful project delivery for the entire project team. She approaches design in a strategic manner, developing meaningful solutions that make sense for each client’s specific requirements.

Elzbieta (Ela) has been an integral part of the team since joining in 2008. After obtaining her Master of Architecture degree from Gdansk University of Technology in Poland in 2006, Ela gained international experience across a broad range of project types, including commercial, residential, and corporate interiors.

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Ela’s dedication, experience, and commitment to a collaborative work environment facilitate a passion for sharing expertise through the guidance and mentorship of young architecture professionals. Her design philosophy is one of innovation inspired by a principle of harmony between the urban and natural environment. Ela works to foster architecture which understands and respects the interplay between interior design and exterior envelope, guaranteeing the integrity of projects.

Craig is passionate about the power of design and its ability to positively affect working and living environments. His enthusiasm for architecture is evident in his thoughtful approach to collaborative project delivery.

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A licensed architect with the Ontario Association of Architects, Craig received his Master of Architecture from Carleton University in 2011. Craig will focus on promoting innovative and sustainable design solutions to help clients realize their project vision. He is committed to design excellence through rigorous project management and has delivered complex projects throughout Ottawa. Craig has a proven track record of success, most recently as the project architect for the seven-storey mixed-use, multi-unit residential and commercial property at Bank and Fifth.