The Firm

About The Firm

Chmiel Architects, established in 1996, is an Award Winning Architectural Design practice located in Ottawa, Canada.

At Chmiel Architects, we focus on an integrated, strategic design process to help our clients envision a better-built environment where we help them leverage thoughtful design’s ability to produce innovative solutions that effect real place transformation.

Every project is conceived to support an essential belief in the power of architecture to influence real-world conditions. Our firm is composed of a core group of highly motivated and skilled professionals who work collaboratively to ensure every design solution balances architectural vision with a pragmatic project delivery process which is environmentally responsible and strives for architectural excellence.

Our approach prioritizes the making of architecture of the highest quality in a manner that supports our clients’ program and success and achieves projects which balance the interaction of social, functional, financial, aesthetic, and environmental elements.

The firm is a member in good standing with the American Institute of Architects, the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, the Ontario Association of Architects, and the Canadian Green Building Council. We have built a reputation on innovative design, technical expertise, and dynamic leadership.

Design Philosophy

Any built project, whether an interior environment or a three-dimensional architectural form, responds to and communicates with its environment spatially and in an affecting manner. At Chmiel Architects, it is our desire and intention to ensure that this interplay is focused and strategic, meeting our clients’ business objectives and responding to the human condition with its architectural expression.

Solutions

At Chmiel Architects, we believe in upholding the highest standards of integrity, collaboration, sustainability, and inclusivity in all aspects of our work. Our values serve as the foundation for our business practices and guide us in creating exceptional design solutions for our clients.

collaboration

Collaboration helps us establish long-term partnerships with clients, consultants, and other stakeholders, ensuring that our designs are responsive to their needs. It empowers us to stay at the cutting edge of architectural design, as it encourages our team to continually explore new perspectives and embrace emerging technologies and methodologies. By working together, we enhance our individual skills and strengthen the collective capabilities of Chmiel Architects, driving the ongoing success and growth of our firm.

architectural design

Site Planning

Detailed Design Studies

Cost Estimation

Design Brief
Documentation

Scheduling

Construction Drawings and Specifications

Tender Administration and Evaluation

Contract Administration

Warranty Review

BIM for Simulation and Management

Project Management via Newforma Project Center

interior design

Functional Programming

Needs Analysis

Space Planning

Furniture Selection

Furniture Specifications

Furniture Procurement including RFP preparation

sustainability

At Chmiel Architects, sustainability is a core value that drives our design approach, as we recognize our responsibility to design innovative, functional, and beautiful spaces that leave a lasting, positive impact on the environment. Integrating sustainable design principles allows us to minimize the environmental footprint of our buildings by reducing energy consumption and conserving resources. This results in long-term cost savings for our clients and promotes healthier living conditions for occupants while reducing the negative impact on our planet.

culture

Cultivating a strong and vibrant culture encourages creativity, collaboration, and a shared purpose among our team members. Our commitment to nurturing a culture of inclusivity enriches our work environment and allows us to embrace diverse perspectives and ideas.

By valuing the unique ideas, skills, and experiences of our diverse team, we can approach architectural design challenges from multiple angles to ensure that we deliver exceptional solutions to our clients.

Design Milestones By The Numbers

750+

Projects Completed

27

Years of Experience

8

Design Awards

11

Sustainable Projects

Testimonials

Chmiel Architects has provided a level of service which has been thoroughly responsive within an integrated team delivery process. They have provided a level of skill and expertise and an attention to detail which has proven to be of great benefit to EDC. The firm met the challenges of the project, consistently maintaining a professional and qualitative approach to all tasks and deliverables.”

Ian Glasgow

Director, Real Estate and Corporate Services

Export Development Canada (EDC)

Chmiel resourced their team with knowledgeable professionals who brought both logistics and vision to the project. The team’s attention to detail was very instrumental in the approval of this complicated and comprehensive renovation project.”

Julia McAllister

Senior Project Manager

CBRE Limited Global Corporate Services

Chmiel Architects has provided the highest level of service to Alterna to meet our project timelines and deliverables in a timely manner and their professional approach to our project has provided Alterna with an effective working collaborative team environment. Furthermore, CA was a tireless advocate for Alterna throughout the project’s duration, from design through to occupancy and move in.”

Jeff P. Olynik

Manager Facilities & Building Operations

Alterna Savings & Credit Union Ltd.

“I am extremely grateful for our trusted and collaborative relationship, which has enabled TELUS to demonstrate our leadership in corporate social responsibility, embrace healthy living, conserve energy, and support the environment. Once again, thank you for your outstanding contributions to TELUS House Ottawa and best wishes for your continued success. “

Darren Entwistle

President and CEO

A member of the TELUS team

“The firm strategized the development of the design to facilitate our need to consider budget and schedule and made any necessary adjustments during the design process to ensure that these two requirements were met, and as well delivered an aesthetically suitable Architectural response to our building program.”

Russ Goto

Vice President Construction

SmartREIT

“Mr. Chmiel and his team continue to maintain a very professional attitude and work in the best interests of the project management group and owner. As principal of the firm, Mr. Chmiel has maintained a hands-on role throughout the duration of each of these projects, and his firm has provided sound technical expertise during the construction phase.”

Patrick Blundon

Managing Director

Broccolini Construction Inc.

Let's Work Together

We’re here to help turn your vision and goals into reality. Whether you're looking for our services or looking to join us, we're always excited to hear from passionate individuals who share our values and want to help us create exceptional spaces.

Contact us today and see how our team can work with you.

START A PROJECT JOIN OUR DIVERSE TEAM