Darethion Quinthal Architects | Sustainable Urban Design & Heritage Restoration

We're not your typical firm.

Look, we've been doing this for a while now, and honestly? The best projects happen when old meets new. There's something special about taking a century-old building that's seen better days and breathing life back into it while making sure it'll stick around for another hundred years.

We're based in Vancouver where heritage buildings sit right next to glass towers, and that's kinda our thing. Whether you're looking at adaptive reuse, sustainable commercial spaces, or residential projects that actually respect their surroundings – we've probably done something similar and learned a few things along the way.

Our approach isn't complicated: listen more than we talk, design with purpose, and make buildings that work for people and the planet. No fluff, just solid architecture that'll stand the test of time.

What We Actually Do

From concept sketches on napkins to final permits, we handle the whole journey. Here's where we spend most of our time:

→ Residential Architecture
Homes that fit how you actually live, not some magazine spread.
→ Commercial Building Design
Functional spaces that don't bore your employees or clients to tears.
→ Heritage Building Restoration
Preserving what matters while making old buildings relevant again.

→ Sustainable Design Consulting
Green building strategies that actually make financial sense.
→ Urban Planning & Development
Thinking bigger picture – neighborhoods, not just buildings.
→ Interior Space Planning
Making sure the inside works as well as the outside looks.

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Recent Work We're Proud Of

Each project tells its own story. Here's a quick look at what's been keeping us busy lately.

Granville Commons

Mixed-use development that hit LEED Gold without breaking the budget.

Gastown Revival

1890s warehouse turned modern offices.

Kitsilano Residence

Family home that actually lives well.

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How We Think About Design

Every building's got constraints – budget, zoning, timeline, the neighbor who complains about everything. That's where the interesting work happens.

We don't believe in signature styles or forcing our aesthetic on your project. What we do believe in? Buildings that respond to their context, use resources wisely, and improve over time instead of falling apart.

Sustainability isn't a checklist for us – it's just good design. Same with heritage work. You can't fake authenticity, but you also can't live in a museum. Finding that balance is what keeps this job interesting after all these years.

Learn more about our approach →

Got a Project in Mind?

Whether you've got detailed plans or just a rough idea, let's grab a coffee and talk it through. No pressure, no sales pitch – just a conversation about what's possible.

Get In Touch