Services

Stevens Burgess Architects provides a full range of architectural services customized to meet the needs of your project. With expertise in Architectural Design, Heritage Conservation, Interior Design & Space Planning, and Urban Design & Planning, SBA will work with you to ensure your project is conceived and coordinated as an integrated whole with strict attention paid to quality, time, and cost.

ARCHITECTURE

Each architectural project is unique. SBA works with our clients to design exciting buildings and spaces which are flexible, functional, and well suited to the users’ needs. We expertly aid you to navigate your project’s challenges from the feasibility study through to the completion of construction. Our goal is to exceed your expectations in all stages of the work, and to leave you with a finished project to suit your needs.

 

SBA has extensive experience working with clients of all sizes to design new, or renovation/retrofit existing structures for a broad range of building types, from large office tower retrofits to single family houses, from places of worship and theatres to firing ranges, and everything in between.

 

Design

SBA is recognized for our ability to design architectural projects which are complementary to the surrounding context, whether it is within a sensitive heritage district, a busy downtown street, or an open field. With attention to massing, proportion, views and building usage, we work closely with our clients to develop designs which suit their unique and specific requirements.

 

We strive to utilize creative solutions to address a project’s challenges to ensure the final product suits our client’s programmatic needs and exceeds their aesthetic desires.

 

Project Cost Management

SBA is available to provide complete project management for our clients as required. Detailed project costing is provided through our quantity surveyors and Cost Consultants.

 

For a project’s costs to be accurate, the tendering process and construction contract administration must be carefully monitored. SBA has the skills and experience to provide this oversight and utilizes the industry standard CCDC documents for contract administration. A Clerk of Works can also be provided for the most complex and demanding projects. SBA feels that for a design to be successful it must be realized on time and on budget.

 

Measured Drawings

Architects are held liable by society to maintain their high professional standards. The profession demands meticulous project documentation, particularly in the area of drawings. The accurate recording of as-found conditions is the foundation of responsible facilities management. The attention to detail required to create as-found drawings for significant heritage buildings such as the Old Don Jail and the Whitney Block has endowed SBA with the legacy of very accurately being able to document as-found conditions.

 

Building Code Compliance Audits & Building Permits

As registered architects, we have extensive training in Provincial and Federal Building Codes. Because much of the practice at SBA deals with renovation and restoration, we are masters at dealing with the Building Code’s ‘Part 11 Renovation’. It is Part 11 of the Code that allows one to use equivalencies in dealing with existing structures and building usage. SBA can assist with permit application and can provide the appropriate construction review procedures to ensure code compliance by including the authorities within the design process.

 

Sustainable Design

SBA has experience working with the government’s green design policies and has two architects who are LEED certified. Through a decade of working closely with the Ministry of Environment’s facility management team, SBA has been continually striving to raise the bar for the green workplace.

 

SBA has also completed multiple projects centred on the Government of Ontario Healthy Workplace Initiative. Most notably, SBA turned one of the province’s highly publicized buildings affected by mould, 1201 Wilson Avenue, into the ultimate healthy workplace.

 

Through the design of a project, SBA attempts to reuse, recycle or reclaim as much of the existing building material as possible and strives to specify green products. SBA is also an advocate for the preservation of heritage buildings which, in itself, is a sustainable undertaking.

 

Renovations & Additions

The renovation of an existing building and construction of additions can pose unique design and construction challenges, but the result can also produce very unique and interesting projects. The re-use / re-purposing of existing buildings or building elements often has environmental benefits as well. An existing building contains a significant amount of embodied energy. The demolition of an existing structure to rebuild with all new materials wastes this energy. The benefits of re-use of existing buildings also aids in the conservation of our cultural legacy, even if the building does not have a heritage designation.

 

SBA’s significant experience with renovations and additions, in conjunction with our technical expertise and sensitivity to existing building conditions enable us to develop creative and useful means to adapt existing structures to suit our client’s needs.

 

Sample Projects:

 

Feasibility Studies

A feasibility study is the initial assessment of a project to determine if it is possible and practical, and includes development of an approximate construction budget. It is highly recommended that a feasibility study be undertaken at the onset of a project, particularly for renovations or additions. The study can be completed as part of the design development of a project, or as a separate contract.

 

Feasibility studies focus on three principal issues: approval requirements, design concept, construction budget and schedule. Approvals include the assessment of Authorities related items such as Building Code and Zoning issues. The conceptual design explores alternatives to maximize the projects potential. Construction costs are broken down by division with allocated contingencies for the basis of project management.

 

SBA’s experience is a valuable tool for understanding the potential benefits and pitfalls from the initial stages of any project, and we strive to work with our clients to maximize the potential of any project.

 

Accessibility (AODA standards)

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act identifies standards for access and use of buildings. Modifying an existing building to accommodate these standards can be challenging, but SBA has a wealth of experience to draw upon to develop creative and aesthetically sympathetic solutions. SBA is also well versed in negotiating the conflicting requirements of the AODA standards and the Heritage Act.

 

Planning

Our planning experience has equipped us with the tools and skillset to expertly guide our clients through planning processes required for new developments. This is a multi-step process which varies based on the size and scope of the project, and the municipality/jurisdiction where the project is to take place. The Project Feasibility Assessment will identify the appropriate Applications, Reports and requirements to make the planning approval and building permit process run smoothly and successfully.

 

HERITAGE PLANNING

SBA is well respected within the heritage community and has the skills and expertise required for your heritage project, either as the Prime Consultant or as a dedicated Heritage Sub- Consultant. Three of SBA’s partners are members of the Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals (CAHP) and our projects have achieved recognition and won numerous awards for the high quality of the conservation work.

 

We have the experience and expertise to provide a full range of services for your heritage property, from assessments of the existing condition and development of Conservation Master Plans, to full Conservation/Restoration and adaptive re-use projects. We also provide specialized services for Heritage Impact Assessments and Cultural Heritage Evaluations.

 

Condition Assessments

The undertaking of an assessment of the existing condition of an existing building is the an important step in the development of a Master Plan / Conservation Plan or before undertaking a Conservation / Adaptive Re-use project. Depending on the needs of the particular building and client, the assessment can focus on only the identified heritage attributes and the elements that directly affect them, or encompass the entire building including mechanical, electrical (and other) systems.

 

In addition to identifying the existing conditions of the building elements, the report also analyses the cause of any deterioration, and the recommended action. The recommended timeframe and estimated budget can also be included.

 

With SBA’s extensive experience in the assessment and conservation of heritage buildings we have developed the skill set required to complete extremely thorough, accurate and efficient condition assessments. Our clients have commended us on the usefulness of our assessments, and easily referenced format which we have utilize for all of our reports.

 

Conservation Feasibility Studies

A Conservation Feasibility Study is the initial assessment of a Conservation Project to determine the best approach to the conservation of the heritage property, whether it’s a stabilization to prevent deterioration, preservation of existing elements, or a full restoration. The study develops recommended approaches and methodologies that will be most beneficial to both the heritage resource and the client’s needs. The study typically includes development of an approximate construction budget which assists the client in making informed decisions.

 

It is highly recommended that a feasibility study be undertaken at the onset of a project, particularly for renovations, additions, or conservation projects. The study can be completed as part of the design development of a project, or as a separate contract.

 

Conservation feasibility studies focus on four principal issues: good heritage practice, approval requirements, design concept, construction budget and schedule. Approvals include the assessment of Authorities related items such as Building Code, Zoning issues and Heritage Conservation requirements. The conceptual design explores alternatives to maximize the projects potential. Construction costs are broken down by division with allocated contingencies for the basis of project management.

 

SBA’s significant experience in heritage conservation complements our architectural expertise to create an in-depth understanding of the potential benefits and pitfalls facing a conservation project, enabling us and our clients to maximize the success of our projects.

 

Heritage Conservation/Preservation Projects

The conservation of a heritage property requires the sensitivity and insight of highly skilled heritage professionals. Three of SBA’s partners are members of the Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals and are thus committed to the highest standards of heritage conservation.

 

We pride ourselves on developing detailed specifications and construction drawings which clearly address the observed site conditions, constructability, and good heritage practice while simultaneously addressing the client’s programmatic and budgetary needs. During the construction phase, our extensive contract administration experience on heritage projects and our attention to detail enables us to work effectively with the heritage contractors to resolve any construction issues which may be discovered.

 

SBA has completed a wide range of diverse heritage conservation projects from small restoration projects such as the Ward’s Island Landing Stage and wood cladding repairs at Fort York, to complete masonry parapet and metal cornice rebuilds at the Macdonald Institute and the exterior restoration of the 16 storey tower of the Whitney Block at Queen’s Park.

 

Sample Projects: (links to portfolio)

 

Stabilization Projects

A stabilization project can be undertaken to preserve a heritage property when a full conservation/restoration is not currently feasible. The intent of a stabilization project is to prevent the further deterioration of a properties heritage attributes, and to mitigate any life-safety issues which may arise on the site. These projects are not intended to be final solutions, but temporary measures until a building has new occupants, new use, or until funding is in place for a larger conservation project.

 

SBA’s uses our extensive understanding of material and building science in conjunction with our heritage sensitivities to assess the existing conditions and specify the appropriate response based on both the needs of the heritage property and the needs of our client. Our goal is to use minimal interventions to stabilize the heritage attributes so that they may be successfully restored in future projects.

 

Adaptive re-use projects

Adaptive reuse is the process of changing a building’s function to accommodate the changing needs of its users. The benefits of re-use extend far beyond the conservation of our cultural legacy. Re-use of existing heritage buildings can be economical through tax credits and lower acquisition, demolition, and construction material costs. Available utilities and public services can also lower site preparation costs.

 

Re-use of an existing building or building elements often has environmental benefits. An existing building contains a significant amount of embodied energy and the demolition of an existing structure to rebuild with all new materials wastes this energy.

 

SBA’s technical expertise and sensitivity to existing building conditions enable us to develop creative and useful means to adapt existing structures.

Sample Projects: (links to portfolio)

  • Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery
  • Dundurn National Historic Site

 

Cultural Heritage Evaluations (C.H.E.) and Cultural Heritage Evaluation Recommendations (C.H.E.R.)

The Ontario Heritage Act provides a frame-work for the conservation of properties that are valued for the important contribution they make to our understanding and appreciation of the history of a place, an event, or people. The identification and evaluation of potential heritage resources are a vital part of the conservation process.

 

Following the criteria set out in Ontario Regulation 9/06 (for municipal designation) and 10/06 (for provincially owned properties), the evaluation examines the contextual, historical/associative, and design/physical significance of a property. A Cultural Heritage Evaluation requires historical research and site analysis to develop understanding and knowledge of the overall context of a community’s heritage and how the property being evaluated fits into that context; research into the history and cultural associations of the property; and examination of the property for physical evidence of its heritage features/attributes, past use or cultural associations.

 

If the property is determined to have heritage value through the C.H.E. process, recommendations are then developed (C.H.E.R.) along with a draft Statement of Heritage Value. A Statement of Heritage Value explains why a property or heritage resource is significant and identifies the features of the property that must be preserved in order to protect its heritage significance. It also addresses why the resource is identified as having heritage value. The statement is the key document on which the conservation approach for a property is based. These recommendations are submitted to the municipality or other appropriate authority, for the purpose of Designating or Listing the property.

 

SBA and our team have the expertise and experience required to complete an in-depth and thorough C.H.E.’s and develop the associated recommendations.

Additional Information/Resources:

 

Heritage Impact Assessments (H.I.A.)

A Heritage Impact Assessment (H.I.A.) is a study to determine if any cultural heritage or areas of archaeological potential, are impacted by a proposed development or project. It can also demonstrate how the heritage resource will be conserved in the context of redevelopment or site alteration. Mitigative or avoidance measures, or alternative development/approaches may be recommended.

 

As per the Ontario Provincial Policy Statement and the Planning Act, a municipality or approval authority requires a H.I.A. to guide the approval, modification, or denial of a proposed project that affects a heritage resource. Planning authorities shall not permit construction projects on lands adjacent to a protected heritage property except where the project has been evaluated and has demonstrated that the heritage property will be conserved. This applies to all properties containing cultural heritage resources, including all designated, listed, inventoried, and mapped heritage properties, protected heritage properties, and others, under local, provincial or federal jurisdictions.

 

As Heritage Architects registered with the Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals (CAHP), SBA is fully qualified to prepare H.I.A.’s for built heritage resources and cultural heritage landscapes. SBA has completed numerous H.I.A’s for a wide variety of building and project types, for a broad range of corporate, governmental, and private property owners.

 

Heritage Conservation Plans

A Heritage Conservation Plan is a document that details how a cultural heritage resource can be conserved. The recommendations of the plan should include descriptions of repairs, stabilization and preservation activities as well as long term conservation, monitoring and maintenance measures.

 

A Heritage Conservation Plan is a valuable resource for any owner of a heritage property as it guides both short and long term projects to ensure the heritage property is maintained and appropriately conserved.

 

The quality of a conservation plan relies on the expertise of the development team. As heritage architects and as members of the Canadian Association of Heritage Professional, SBA and their consultant team has the expertise and resources required to develop thorough and appropriate conservation plans. SBA has completed Heritage Conservation Plans for a wide variety of heritage properties throughout Ontario, including the award winning Conservation Plan for the Whitney Block and Tower at Queens Park, Toronto (CAHP Award). SBA’s Heritage Conservation Plans typically include site investigation, research, condition assessment and recommendations, proposed conservation schedule and conservation budget estimates. We strive to ensure our conservation plans are thorough, easily referenced, and useful to the owner and/or facility management team.

 

Construction Protection Plans

Heritage properties often have the potential to be damaged by adjacent construction projects. We utilize our knowledge of heritage construction and materials behaviour to anticipate the potential deterioration caused by the adjacent construction, and determine the appropriate preventative measures to ensure your heritage property remains undamaged.

 

Heritage Commemoration Documentation Prior to Demolition

When a designated heritage property, or portion of a designated property is required to be demolished, the heritage fabric needs to be thoroughly documented through measured drawings, photographs, and other means. This ensures that records of the heritage attributes are retained for commemorative purposes. The documentation process can also identify heritage attributes and other building elements that could be salvaged for re-use, either integrated within a new building on the site, or used elsewhere in other restoration projects.

 

SBA’s attention to detail and experience in building documentation and heritage assessment provide us with the skillsets required for Heritage Commemoration Documentation work. We also have the construction site experience to enable us to safely be present during the demolition work, ensuring the entire process is fully documented.

 

Heritage Grant and Tax Rebate Applications

Many municipalities, including the City of Toronto have Heritage Grant and Heritage Tax Rebate Programs to assist owners of Heritage Properties Designated under part IV and Part V of the Heritage Act with funding for conservation and maintenance projects.

 

The Toronto Heritage Grant Program provides grant funds for a portion of eligible heritage conservation work to designated heritage properties. Eligible heritage conservation project includes conservation work that restores elements significant to the heritage attributes of the designated property. Successful recipients may receive one Toronto Heritage Grant every five years for any given heritage property.

 

The Toronto Heritage Property Tax Rebate Program assists owners of eligible commercial and industrial heritage properties with the cost of maintenance and conservation which preserves, repairs, or restores an eligible heritage property; is planned and executed in a manner that is consistent with the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada; and is in compliance with any in-force heritage conservation district plan and associated guidelines. The Toronto Property Tax Rebate may be applied for yearly for buildings designated under Part IV of the Heritage Act.

 

SBA has a successfully applied for both the Heritage Grants and Tax Rebates on behalf of various clients to assist in funding conservation and maintenance of their Designated properties.

 

Links:

 

Expert Witness

Jane Burgess is an experienced Expert Witness on heritage matters at the Conservation Review Board (Ontario) and at the Ontario Municipal Board. This service typically follows the development of a Heritage Impact Assessment or a Heritage Evaluation Study, the conclusions of which have been refuted and opposed by another party. As part of this service, clients and their lawyers are assisted with preparation of a Witness Statement and an Outline of Evidence.

 

Expert testimony services also may include (when requested) being present during the expert testimony of other witnesses to provide points of cross-examination for legal counsel on heritage matters.

 

 

INTERIOR DESIGN & SPACE PLANNING

Effective interior design demands research, development and analytical skills, a command of technology and knowledge of building and fire codes. SBA has the skills, expertise and attention to detail to enable us to implement your design vision in thoughtful and effective manner.

 

SBA is particularly skilled at space planning for large and complex sites. Each project presents its own challenges whether it is the reconfiguration of existing workstations, the adaptive re-use of a heritage building, or a building wide project requiring multiple phases and swing spaces. SBA will work with you to develop a plan and approach that suits your individual needs.

 

o Project Cost Management

o Measured Drawings

o Building Code Compliance Audits & Building Permits

o Sustainable Design

o Feasibility Studies

o Accessibility (AODA standards)

 

URBAN DESIGN & PLANNING

Within Toronto and Ontario, SBA has completed large urban projects from the assembly of land to the urban design of sites with multiple intercity linkages, setting architectural guidelines for new towers, designing interior public open spaces and coordination of public art installations.