Sustainable

Paul Dowsett came highly recommended, as the architect for our complete house renovation and additions, by a local contractor . We have not been disappointed with the progress so far. Within a very tight timeframe, Paul has been able to merge our (demanding) wish-list with the physical realities of the existing house and site. Paul is consistently showing us how we can make maximum use of the features that the house already possesses and how the future finished product will look like it all belongs together. The integration and flow of spaces, although only on paper at this point, has us completely excited. We can't wait to see the finished product. We have read Paul's other reviews on HomeStars.com, as well as letters of reference from previous Clients, and anticipate that we will be as pleased and excited when we get to move into our new home -- the home that Paul has managed to create to match our specific needs and wishes. Paul aptly describes his work as sensible, sensitive and sustainable. What more could one want ?
David & Mary on The Scarborough Bluffs

Paul was the 2nd architect we hired to design our off-grid straw bale home. When the 1st proved incompetent we asked Paul (a neighbour) for advice. He came back 2 days later with a full presentation to win our business. We hired him and never looked back. He listened to our requirements and designed a house for us, to our needs and desires. As Paul says, "I don't have to live in it, you do." When there were problems he was there with solutions. When we found out that the windows were 2" too tall for the cupola Paul came up with new plans, and a new roof angle(!) at 5:30 on a Thursday afternoon. Just one of the many times he went the extra mile.

A technologically complex house like ours requires that everybody work as a team to make sure the systems all integrate. Paul maintained a level of professionalism and a lack of ego that was refreshing. He'll cheerfully admit when he doesn't know something, then he'll find the resources and come back with answers.

I highly recommend Paul to anybody looking for an architect for any project, big or small.

Dowsett worked attentively, sensitively and tirelessly on the lenghty, complex reno of our 1930s home with the added challenge of "green" design and materials. He is one of the most experienced "green" architects in Canada yet his humility was refreshing. He was a team player and the odd instance when there was something he didn't know or even a mistake made (don't fool yourselves, there are always mistakes...the better architects just make 'em fewer and smaller!)there was nothing but enthusiasm to learn. This is uncommon behavior in such a competitive business. I've been around new construction and renovation (including two other renos of my own) most of my adult life and I can safely say Dowsett is one of the best.
If you're even thinking of "green" renovation/new construction, you would do well to interview Paul Dowsett.

Reference for Mr. Paul Dowsett - Architect

To Whom It May Concern:

I recently engaged the services of Paul Dowsett for the second time in two years. Paul came highly recommended to me through a close friend of mine who has retained him for renovations and additions to his country home, and for renovations to both his condo and company’s offices in the city. I met Paul just over two and a half years ago and since then have retained him for two large residential projects.

The first project was to improve the curb appeal of my home at 54 Balmoral Avenue in Toronto. The fact is, Paul made the house so appealing that it sold within the first twenty-four hours of being listed.

The second project I approached Paul about involved helping me with the overall management of a full scale renovation and addition to my new house, which is also on Balmoral. Paul demonstrated great vision, professionalism, pragmatism and creativity throughout the project. He finds solutions and resolutions even when others have thrown their hands up in frustration. After fourteen months, the renovation is nearing completion and I am pleased to say that I hold Paul in even higher esteem than when we started. In addition to his long list of professional talents and experience, Paul is an absolute pleasure to work with, a constant source of reassurance and is there for you until every last detail is done to perfection.

I have no hesitation in recommending Paul Dowsett and his new firm, sustainABLE design•build•consult for any project, large or small.