Firm Profile
Eric Pattison, MAIBC began in the building field as a carpenter. Perhaps it is due to this hands-on experience that he prefers the opportunity to guide a project through its entirety, from concept design through civic approval, to construction and final completion. He understands that working cooperatively with clients and the building trades is essential to a successful project.
Registered in 1990, Eric spent several years with larger architectural firms working on complex commissions before establishing his own practice. While these years provided invaluable experience, he found that project and staff management demands took time away from design and attentive client service. Eric Pattison Architect has consciously chosen to operate as a small practice to be more responsive to architectural and client-service issues.
Looking first at the history and character of each building site – whether a natural setting, an existing building or a neighborhood – our design process weaves in the needs and ideas of clients, skillfully negotiates the challenges of regulations and technology, and develops interesting and workable design solutions. We not only pay close attention to design details, but also to the details of project delivery and team communication.
In addition to a general practice, Eric Pattison Architect has particular expertise in two areas: heritage architecture and private country houses.
Heritage architecture involves evaluating all manner of historic buildings, preparing Heritage Conservation Plans, and designing projects to rehabilitate historic buildings and return them to meaningful use. We support sustaining the built environment through revitalizing old buildings and using reclaimed building materials. Building conservation is more than just preserving, respecting and learning from the past; it often entails negotiating civic and public support for development bonuses or financial grants for heritage projects.
Private country houses involve carefully interpreting the natural history of a site and blending this character with client aspirations to create enduring and well-crafted homes. Only after discussing project objectives with a client, investigating the opportunities and constraints of the site and local construction methods, and meeting with governing authorities and often local builders, does a design begin to emerge. This approach ensures greater meaning and suitability to the final design scheme.
As a native of British Columbia, Eric has a deep knowledge of the rich provincial landscape and history. From working as a Gulf Island carpenter, through large developments and now to detailed architecture, he has melded his interests, experience and skills to design comfortable and creative spaces that bring eloquent expression to client desires and respect for the story of the place.