---
title: "Christopher Simmonds Architect — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/christopher-simmonds-architect-pfvwus-pf~1325575200
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~1325575200.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "Christopher Simmonds Architect"
category: ["Architects"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/7443b55900b7c000_8536-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "45 Eccles Street, Ottawa, Ontario K2J E3, Canada"
latitude: 45.2739
longitude: -75.7406
phone: "(613) 567-7888"
website: http://www.csarchitect.com
rating: 5
review_count: 6
best_of_houzz_awards: 6
followers: 1039
last_updated: 2026-08-14
---

# Christopher Simmonds Architect

Original Houzz profile: [Christopher Simmonds Architect](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/christopher-simmonds-architect-pfvwus-pf~1325575200)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Architects
- **Location:** Ottawa, ON
- **Serves:** Gatineau, Ottawa
- **Houzz rating:** 5.0 out of 5 (6 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2014–2021), for Design.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Star Houzzer
- Houzz Influencer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 100,000 Ideabook Saves

Since the inception of the firm in 1996, Christopher Simmonds Architect has provided a broad range of clients with the highest quality of service on residential, institutional, commercial and educational projects.

Our goal is to promote individual and community well-being through an integrated design that fully supports all needs of the client, while respecting the overall integrity of the site from the perspective of architecture, environment and community.

### Services Provided

- Architectural Design
- Building Design
- Home Remodeling
- Architectural Drawings
- Custom Homes
- House Plans
- New Home Construction
- Home Additions
- Home Extensions
- Sustainable Design
- Green Building

### Areas Served

- Gatineau
- Ottawa

### Typical Job Cost

CAD 150,000 - CAD 1,000,000

Most of our projects range from $250/sqft to $350/sqft.

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | Christopher Simmonds Architect |
| Address | 45 Eccles Street, Ottawa, Ontario K2J E3, Canada |
| Phone | (613) 567-7888 |
| Website | http://www.csarchitect.com |
| Followers on Houzz | 1039 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/pages/Christopher-Simmonds-Architect/285424458143641?ref=tn\_tnmn
- X (Twitter) — https://twitter.com/CSArchitect1
- Blog — http://pinterest.com/CSArchitect/

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [Christopher Simmonds Architect](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/christopher-simmonds-architect-pfvwus-pf~1325575200)
- **Website:** http://www.csarchitect.com
- **Phone:** (613) 567-7888

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- Numerous Ontario Housing Design Awards
- Numerous Ottawa Housing Design Awards
- Canada Green Building Leadership Award
- New Edinburgh Community Housing Design Award

- **Best of Houzz:** 6 awards (2014–2021), for Design.

**Affiliations**
- [Royal Architecture Institute of Canada (RAIC)](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/schools-and-organizations/royal-architecture-institute-of-canada-raic-pfvwus-pf~1796754626)

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 — 6 reviews**

*Aspect averages:*
- Work Quality: 50.0
- Communication: 50.0
- Value: 50.0

### All 6 reviews

**★★★★★ — cdrg+RedTeam, Dec. 2020**

> We\`ve worked with Christopher and Samantha for close to a decade now and CSA has been amazing to deal with.  They are very professional, attentive to your ideas and together we managed to produce very creative work.  Thank you

**★★★★★ — jelka Lujic, Dec. 2018**

> If you ever plan to build your dream house, choosing an expert architect is what will make the difference between an average house and the perfect house. And "Perfect" is what we have now thanks to Chris Simmonds and his team. He not only helped us build a beautiful house but also a warm, inviting and still very practical house.Chris just knows how to bring the outdoors into the house and create the perfect FengShui. The best testimony comes from all guests that have come to our house ; every one of them, with no exception, has noticed how welcoming and warm our modern house feels. Their first reaction when entering our home is always : Woaaa..!!
> The devil is in the details (and quality of materials) ; and that is just one of the number of areas Chris excels.
> I could go on and on!

**★★★★★ — cdrg+RedTeam, April 2017**

> Chirs and his team are very professional and help produce innovative design concepts.
>
> We look forward to working with his team in 2017

**★★★★★ — Northern Wide Plank Flooring, Jan. 2017**

> We have worked with Christopher Simmonds Architect for four years now and have very much enjoyed working with them and their commitment to design excellence. Their reputation for maintaining an open dialogue with their clients, listening closely to their needs and providing solutions that exceed expectations of the client and the community is outstanding.
>
> We look forward to continuing to work with Christopher Simmonds Architect in their endeavour to create unique, custom designs.
>
> This is one of the projects completed, amazing! http://www.houzz.com/projects/372859

**★★★★★ — Maple Leaf Custom Homes, Sept. 2014**

> Working with the team at Christopher Simmonds Architect's has been a rewarding and learning experience.  They are an extremely talented group, dedicated to their clients and exceptional design.  Building a home designed by their team challenges our crew to be creative and utilize all of our skills.  Their unique perspective and collaborative approach fosters a result oriented environment.  It helps to broaden our expertise and make us better builders.  We look forward to long term relationship enhancing our built environment.

**★★★★★ — NATHAN KYLE, Feb. 2014**

> The Firms attention to detail and commitment to good design is well received by all its clients that I have had the pleasure of working with as well.
> CSA is definitely a game changer for the Ottawa community.

## Selected projects

- [Tay Valley Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tay-valley-cottage-pj-vj~5407474)
  - Location: Perth, ON
  - Photos: 12
  - Description: Perched on a steeply sloped site and facing west, this cottage was designed to enhance the magnificent view of the water and take advantage of the spectacular sunsets. The owners wanted the new cottage to be modern enough – but also respect tradition. It was also important to blur the lines between indoors and out. The main level houses living, dining, kitchen, guest room and powder room with transparent walls that blend into the landscape. A covered deck with exposed Douglas fir rafters extends…
- [Ravine Bunglaow](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ravine-bunglaow-pj-vj~4223513)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 23
- [Industrial Farm House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/industrial-farm-house-pj-vj~3132752)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 58
  - Description: The client’s brief was to create a space reminiscent of their beloved downtown Chicago industrial loft, in a rural farm setting, while incorporating their unique collection of vintage and architectural salvage. The result is a custom designed space that blends life on the farm with an industrial sensibility. The new house is located on approximately the same footprint as the original farm house on the property. Barely visible from the road due to the protection of conifer trees and a long drivew…
- [Canal Terrace House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/canal-terrace-house-pj-vj~3132514)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 20
  - Description: The main living space has a direct connection to the terrace overlooking the Rideau Canal. Built-in benches act as a screen and wrap around the terrace providing privacy while maintaining views to the north and west. The terrace features a modern concrete fire pit, completing the outdoor living room. At the third floor the shallow roof acts as a canopy for the sheltered terrace. Below, the north façade was conceived as two stone masses flanking a wall which consists primarily of glazing, creatin…
- [Gallery House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/gallery-house-pj-vj~3050655)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 24
  - Description: Contemporary materials in varied tones and textures create a calm exterior that settles; in a neighbourly way; into this mature neighbourhood of traditional homes. The warm cedar soffits and exterior doors offset the home’s cool grey palette of brick, fiber cement panels and Adair Limestone. The south facing front terrace has an intimate connection to the interior living spaces. The floor to ceiling glazing sliding doors, provide a great space for enjoying a morning coffee and the newspaper or c…
- [Manotick Renovation](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/manotick-renovation-pj-vj~4223636)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 26
- [Backyard Bliss](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/backyard-bliss-pj-vj~4234797)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 25
- [Dunrobin Shores](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dunrobin-shores-pj-vj~612986)
  - Location: Dunrobin, ON
  - Photos: 18
  - Description: Simplicity and openness define the experience of being in this modest home. To the river, a continuous wall of glass spans the living, dining and kitchen space allowing a full panorama of the passing seasons. Away from the water the view is framed and edited by a simple porch. The porch roof has been opened to create space from nature, a single Japanese maple which is inserted as a foil to the simple black stained cedar cladding of the house. The garage volume is differentiated from the house by…
- [Bayswater Townhomes](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bayswater-townhomes-pj-vj~4234758)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 26
- [Atlantis Avenue](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/atlantis-avenue-pj-vj~1472506)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 10
  - Description: Locating the living spaces on the upper level is the key strategic move that gives the home expansive views over NCC green space and the Ottawa River. Honed concrete-block walls and grey-stained cedar siding pass from exterior to interior, successfully blurring the lines between what’s in and out. The main level contains the office, a guest room, the mudroom and an entertainment room. A sleek open-riser stair rises up through a large double-height space to the main living-spaces. In the double-h…
- [Canal View Condo](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/canal-view-condo-pj-vj~4223553)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 24
- [Wellington Village](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/wellington-village-pj-vj~1044926)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 26
  - Description: Although minimalist in style, this single family home melds perfectly into the streetscape of an older neighborhood. The use of natural materials, a neutral and harmonious colour scheme and natural stonework in the landscaping all contribute to a home that exudes calm. Double-height space and an open stairwell allow light and air to flow through the house. A custom-made sculpture is elegantly suspended between the two floors at the centre of the home. Expansive openings allow the adjacent landsc…
- [A Piece of Paris](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/a-piece-of-paris-pj-vj~3131499)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 18
  - Description: The gracefully composed façade, featuring round arch windows and wrought-iron balustrades, hints at the Parisian-inspired spaces inside. The clients wanted the dark interior transformed into a bright, elegant and comfortable space, suited to house their collection of art and antiques. Photography by Adrien Williams
- [Ottawa River House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ottawa-river-house-pj-vj~144569)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 30
- [Courtyard Bungalow](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/courtyard-bungalow-pj-vj~294537)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 17
- [Zen Barn](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/zen-barn-pj-vj~129387)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 23
- [Modern Oasis](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/modern-oasis-pj-vj~3051302)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 13
  - Description: Providing elegance and a sense of wonder within a functional plan for a busy family of four, this modern home was envisioned as a pavilion in the garden. View lines in the floor plans were carefully considered to thoughtfully compose the experience of the space; all rooms have a garden view. The kitchen is completely open to the living space and deliberately screened from the dining room resulting in an ideal home for entertaining. Custom millwork, of carbonized bamboo, bookends the spacious kit…
- [Val Des Monts](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/val-des-monts-pj-vj~1147001)
  - Location: Gatineau, QC
  - Photos: 15
  - Description: A family cottage in the Gatineau hills infused with Canadiana shifts its way over the edge of a cliff to command views of the adjacent lake. The retreat is gently embedded in the Canadian Shield; the sleeping quarters firmly set in the rock while the cantilevered family room dramatically emerges from this stone base. The modest entry visible from the road leads to an orchestrated, tranquil path entering from the forest-side of the house and moving through the space as it opens up onto the lakesi…
- [Gatineau Hills](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/gatineau-hills-pj-vj~372859)
  - Location: Cantley, QC
  - Photos: 18
- [House in the Garden](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/house-in-the-garden-pj-vj~634631)
  - Location: Ottawa, ON
  - Photos: 19

[See all 31 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/christopher-simmonds-architect-pfvwus-pf~1325575200)

## Frequently Asked Questions

**What types of projects do you specialize in (custom homes, remodels, additions)?**
We specialize in a wide range of residential projects, including custom homes, new home construction, home additions, extensions, and comprehensive home remodeling. Since 1996, our firm has also undertaken institutional, commercial, and educational projects, bringing a broad expertise to every design challenge.

**Do you provide full-service architectural services through construction?**
Yes, we offer comprehensive architectural services from initial concept and design development through to construction. Our 'Onsite services' ensure we can support your project effectively during the building phase, maintaining design integrity and quality throughout.

**Do you design fully custom homes?**
Absolutely, designing fully custom homes is one of our core specialties. We pride ourselves on creating unique, tailored designs that perfectly reflect our clients' visions, lifestyles, and the specific characteristics of their site.

**Do you have experience with luxury or high-end homes?**
Yes, we have extensive experience designing luxury and high-end homes. Our commitment to providing the 'highest quality of service' and our numerous Ontario and Ottawa Housing Design Awards reflect our expertise in crafting sophisticated and exceptional residences.

**Do you offer construction administration or site visits?**
Yes, we absolutely offer construction administration and conduct site visits as part of our comprehensive services. Our 'Onsite services' ensure that the design intent is realized during construction, maintaining quality and addressing any issues promptly.

*FAQ content may be generated based on the Pro's Houzz profile and website.*

## Ideabooks

- [clever cabinets](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/115480356/list/clever-cabinets) — 7 ideas
- [rural project](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/110523668/list/rural-project) — 23 ideas
- [Ensuites](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/7130038/list/ensuites) — 12 ideas
- [Interiors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/7130013/list/interiors) — 25 ideas
- [Materials](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/7130076/list/materials) — 6 ideas
- [Modern Landscape](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/6869233/list/modern-landscape) — 51 ideas
- [lighting](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/105350200/list/lighting) — 4 ideas
- [Entry](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/7130126/list/entry) — 6 ideas
- [WINDOWS AND DOORS](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/104011975/list/windows-and-doors) — 21 ideas
- [Exteriors](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/7130061/list/exteriors) — 29 ideas
- [For Dan & MC](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/26284531/list/for-dan-mc) — 41 ideas
- [Stairs](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/7130118/list/stairs) — 7 ideas

[See all 12 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/christophersimmondsarchitect)

## Community Q&A

**Q: Want to lighten up my living room** *(in Design Dilemma)*

A: A quick way to lighten this room would be to add a large rug in a neutral, light colour. Going a step further would be to replace the wing-back chairs with upholstered chairs, or to have them re-upholstered in a lighter colour fabric... too much leather tends to feel dark and heavy. Good luck!

**Q: great kitchen- backsplash** *(in Photo Questions)*

Nice kitchen. I love the mixed materials.  Where could I get these backsplash tiles?

A: This tile is available through Ciot http://ciot.com/usa/en/habitat/tiles/ceramic/walls/kite/index.sn

**Q: Door manufacturer?** *(in Photo Questions)*

I'd love to know where the door was sourced? I was looking for something exactly like this. Thank you

A: Hi there, these are Kolbe windows and doors

**Q: Open Floor Plan Area Rug Dilemma - Statement Wallpaper and Sofa** *(in Home Decorating)*

Hi!
so....I have this AWESOME wallpaper and a totally rad sofa.  My "family room" where we spend the most time watching TV has the sofa in it.  Just next to that room, we have an area that is open and contains a fireplace.  This area has ALWAYS given me heart palpations because I am never certain of how to set it up exactly so that it flows with the family room and make it look like it is part of that space but still has a feel of it's own as well - do you get me?
anyway, I have a very neutral jute area rug under the green sofa which I THINK works letting the sofa and wallpaper do their thing.  The BIG QUESTION....what the heck kind/style/color of area rug can I do in front of this fireplace with my chairs






that looks great, flows with the family room Jute AND pulls everything together without competing with say....the wallpaper?  ANY suggestions are welcome!  Nothing that is in the "fireplace room" in my photos needs to stay.  Again, looking to pull everything together and what is in that space now is NOT (in my opinion) doing that!  
(pay no attention to the stair carpet...that is changing soon!)
Thanks for your help all!!

A: Love your furniture and wall paper!
I think painting the fireplace wall white would really help brighten the space and let the wallpaper be the main focus. It would also tie in with the white chairs and bench, and the natural fibre rugs for a crisp, beachy look. I would position the bench between the two spaces so that you could sit on it from either side, and get a coffee table for in front of the fireplace, I think that would help unite the plan. Also, consider removing the hide rug, as it doesn't quite go with the tropical theme.
-M

**Q: Handstone Classic Statue Vanity top** *(in Design Dilemma)*

Have 8 different sample whites trying to decide which one to tell cabinet makers use. Everything  from SW Extra White to Snowbound. Should the white be of same range with white in this stone? Or go with a brighter white which will pull in Artic Atesinal shower tiles?

A: Do you have any photos?

**Q: kitchen design - small u-shaped kitchen** *(in Design Dilemma)*

Here is the current layout of my kitchen.  I would like to open up the wall where the stove is as basically a peninsula - the adjoining room is the dining room.  The door that swings in to the kitchen goes to the garage.  The issue is that the lower corner cabinets really limit the layout, as they come in limited sizes.  I want the upper and lower cabinets to be symmetrical (if that makes sense)

A: I hope I've understood the dilemma correctly...
You could consider eliminating the upper cabinets to the left of the sink, and put lower cabinets on the dining room side to make up for lost storage. Eliminating the uppers on this side would make the space feel much more open, especially when standing at the sink.

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-14.*