---
title: "russell and russell design studios — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz"
canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/russell-and-russell-design-studios-pfvwus-pf~504017908
markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~504017908.md
entity_type: LocalBusiness
business_name: "russell and russell design studios"
category: ["Architects"]
image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/657362d002e7e474_8507-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg
address: "200 817 Main Street, Canmore, Alberta T1W 2B3, Canada"
latitude: 51.083
longitude: -115.3427
phone: "(403) 688-3013"
website: http://www.russellandrussell.ca
rating: 4.8
review_count: 20
best_of_houzz_awards: 5
followers: 62
last_updated: 2026-08-20
---

# russell and russell design studios

Original Houzz profile: [russell and russell design studios](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/russell-and-russell-design-studios-pfvwus-pf~504017908)

## Professional summary

- **Primary category:** Architects
- **Location:** Canmore, AB
- **Serves:** Vancouver, Victoria, Edmonton, Banff, Calgary, Canmore, Europe, Exshaw, Harvie Heights
- **Houzz rating:** 4.8 out of 5 (20 reviews)
- **Best of Houzz:** 5 awards (2016–2022), for Design, Service.

## About

### Houzz Badges

- Star Houzzer
- Houzz Influencer
- Recommended on Houzz
- 1,000 Ideabook Saves
- Best of Houzz winner
- References available
- 23 years in business

Russell and Russell Design Studios create unique and dynamic designs that respond to and respect their environment and inhabitants. We use contemporary and traditional forms and details to create distinct human scale buildings that are both beautiful and functional. We feel architecture has the ability to not only inspire but to exceed the aspirations and needs of the users.

Understanding building functions and user lifestyle is critical to providing designs that truly work for each client. Our job is to maximize the potential of each project for our clients while contributing to the identity of the community and improving the quality of lifestyle. Making dreams come to life.

### Services Provided

- Architectural Design
- Building Design
- Home Remodeling
- Architectural Drawings
- Custom Homes
- House Plans
- New Home Construction
- Home Additions
- Home Extensions
- Kitchen Design
- Sustainable Design
- Kitchen Remodeling
- Energy-Efficient Homes
- Floor Plans
- 3D Rendering
- Green Building
- Bathroom Design
- Space Planning
- Universal Design
- Multigenerational Homes
- Drafting
- Home Restoration
- Historic Building Conservation
- Project Management
- Handicap-Accessible Design
- Structural Engineering
- Basement Remodeling
- Mudroom Design
- Basement Design
- Tiny House Construction
- Staircase Design
- Deck Design
- Site Preparation
- Landscape Plans
- Laundry Room Design
- Modular Home Additions
- Prefab Houses
- Construction Drawings
- Custom home design
- Dining Room Design
- Home Gym Design
- Living Room Design
- Log Home Design
- New Home Design
- Pantry Design

### Areas Served

- Vancouver
- Victoria
- Edmonton
- Banff
- Calgary
- Canmore
- Europe
- Exshaw
- Harvie Heights

### Typical Job Cost

CAD 200 - CAD 10,000,000

## Business Details

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Business Name | russell and russell design studios |
| Address | 200 817 Main Street, Canmore, Alberta T1W 2B3, Canada |
| Phone | (403) 688-3013 |
| Website | http://www.russellandrussell.ca |
| Followers on Houzz | 62 |

**Social profiles:**
- Facebook — Russell and Russell Design Studios
- X (Twitter) — @russelldesigns
- Blog — www.russellandrussell.ca

## Offers

2016-2020 Best Of Houzz Award Winner!

## Contact

- **Houzz profile:** [russell and russell design studios](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/russell-and-russell-design-studios-pfvwus-pf~504017908)
- **Website:** http://www.russellandrussell.ca
- **Phone:** (403) 688-3013

## Credentials

**Certifications & Awards**
- Winners of the 2014 Canadian Wood Council Awards in the Commercial and Institutional category for the Grizzly Paw Brewery, Canmore Alberta
- Winner of a 2013 North American Wood Council Award citation for the outstanding application of the use of wood in a commercial building.

- **Best of Houzz:** 5 awards (2016–2022), for Design, Service.

## Reviews

**Overall rating: 4.8 out of 5 — 20 reviews**

*Aspect averages:*
- Work Quality: 30.0
- Communication: 10.0
- Value: 10.0

### Reviews

**★ — kesbug, May 2021**

> My experience with this team started out hopeful, then turned quickly into a  1 + year nightmare. While I believe they may be talented, my experience was awful.  While asking for a budgetary information, I was sent an invoice that was neither discussed nor authorized. Alister did not notify me of rates, billable hours, nor obtain my any written authorization.  I have since gone with a different contractor/ design team and have been incredibly impressed. Truly disappointing.

**★★★★★ — Ginny Holtby, July 2018**

> My kitchen dated back to the 90's. I found russell and russell design through Houzz.   Lesley's suggestions were great and well within the modest budget I assigned to the kitchen update.  I got more than expected - both in terms of the actual changes to the kitchen and the design.  I am delighted with the kitchen's fresh new look and functionality.

**★★★★★ — R T, Feb. 2018**

> We have used the professional services of Russell and Russell for both our business and our home projects and have nothing but positive praise for their work.
> All of our projects had tight time lines and skimpy budgets and neither factor seemed to rattle this team in the least. They had excellent close relationships with the services in town needed to carry out their thoughtful ideas for our business such as incorporating our logos into finer details like shelving and counters, and for both the home and business projects, Lesley kept us involved and saved us money when she sent us out on smaller missions to find elements to incorporate into the spaces but always stayed in touch for consulting from wherever we were hunting for just the right piece.  This team creates beautiful work and now that we have used their services, we can easily spot their unique designs throughout the Bow Valley on any given day. From the brew pub down the street, to the public washrooms in Banff National Park, there is a reason they’re in demand!

**★★★★ — Heidi Chan, Jan. 2018**

> Lesley and Alasdair helped us with our home renovations. We wanted to open up the space in our home and remodel the kitchen. Upon our initial consultation, Lesley presented an idea to us that made our living space more functional (and bigger). It was fantastic! She was always very quick to help with decisions and would kindly point out if we were about to make an error (like where to make the entrance to the kitchen -- thank you!). Plans were quickly drawn up by Alasdair and his team. Meetings were always helpful and our budget was respected.
>
> Lesley continued to help with choosing paint colours, lighting, and furniture fabrics. Her advice was very appreciated, as was her flexibility to be available to help.

**★★★★★ — Woodpecker European Timber Framing, Jan. 2018**

> Woodpecker European Timber Framing has been working with Russell & Russell over the past 10 years.  We have found Alasdair and his team to be consummate professionals and industry experts in Residential Design.
>
> Their work is unrivaled and they have always delivered top service to our clients.  Clear communication, service and quality has been consistent from project to project.  When exploring options for a Residential Designer, we would highly recommend Russell & Russell.
>
> As a key business in the Bow Valley, they are particularly talented in Mountain Living Architectural Design.  They know how to relate residential design to respect the environment, while maximizing the Mountain Living experience.  This is also an important element in what we do, so we appreciate this commitment and stewardship in our community.
>
> We know you will enjoy working with Russell and Russell to create your Mountain Dream home!

**★★★★★ — Kathie Cook, Jan. 2018**

> I have had the pleasure of working with Russell & Russell on many projects of mine. I would high reccomend their services for whatever project you are taking on. They are the best! And the end results are absolutely incredible. Such a talented team that we are so very lucky to have in our small mountain town. You must check them out!

**★★★★★ — Jane Hooper, Jan. 2018**

> I've done a couple of projects with Lesley and have always found the experience fun and inspiring. She is an absolute genius at taking the ugly duckling and turning it into a swan, on a tight budget, and invariably a tight timeframe as well. I am in awe of her ability to see a space and make the right decisions quickly and without fuss, and with incredible results.

**★★★★★ — Susan Palidis, Jan. 2018**

> We hired Alasdair to design our new home in Canmore after seeing many of his projects around town and loving his style. We had very specific ideas on the interior layout and function of the house, and Alasdair did a great job working with us and making it all work! His placement of windows especially has maximized our views from every angle while adding a beautiful design element. It all comes together resulting in a stunning exterior design... not only do we love it but we constantly have people stop and tell us how beautiful it looks. We couldn’t be happier with the function and beauty of our new home... thanks to Alasdair Russell!

**★★★★★ — Beth and Warren Rubin, Jan. 2018**

> Alasdair reinvented an architectural plan of a home we had seen and adapted  it to suit our needs perfectly.Uniquely, he  incorporated many curved elements in the design, softening the plans  to suit the landscape and please us. He achieved  this goal while drawing the plans  upside down from himself so we, who sat across a table from him, could envision the end product accurately from our vantage point.To top it all off, he cleverly configured an elevator which we then could access from all  levels of our home.Capable,dynamic,creative, and flexible, Alasdair listened to our vision of our dream home and made it a reality.

**★★★★★ — David Fournier, Jan. 2018**

> Lesley helped us choose our living room furniture for our new home. She guided us through the process of how to choose the right furniture for our space. We learned a lot. I would highly recommend her services. It's worth it.

**★★★★★ — john\_belinda, Jan. 2018**

> Great people to work with and excellent ideas on any project. Very professional and helpful and I would definitely recommend.

**★★★★★ — User, Jan. 2018**

> Lesley was very helpful in the the design of our renovation. She was willing to assist even though it wasn't a massive job. She was attentive to our wishes and brought in the creative touch that we were seeking.

## Selected projects

- [Classic mountain living](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/classic-mountain-living-pj-vj~5531006)
  - Location: Harvie Heights, AB
  - Photos: 19
  - Description: russell and russell design studios Location: Canmore, AB, Canada Stunning timber frame home with Rundle stone details, private decks and incredible mountain views.
- [Georgian Modernist Duplex](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/georgian-modernist-duplex-pj-vj~3448165)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 50
  - Description: Location: Canmore, AB, Canada Formal duplex in the heart of downtown Canmore, Alberta. Georgian proportions and Modernist style with an amazing rooftop garden and winter house. Walled front yard and detached garage. russell and russell design studios
- [Deadmans Flats](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/deadmans-flats-pj-vj~2387624)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 14
  - Description: Modern mountain home, with a stunning dramatic contemporary interior.
- [Morrison](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/morrison-pj-vj~2332329)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 16
- [Silvertip](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/silvertip-pj-vj~2332407)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 27
- [Miners Duplex](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/miners-duplex-pj-vj~2333367)
  - Location: Harvie Heights, AB
  - Photos: 25
  - Description: Modern mountain duplex, inspired by Canmore's rich mining history
- [Three sisters duplex](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/three-sisters-duplex-pj-vj~2777288)
  - Location: Harvie Heights, AB
  - Photos: 14
  - Description: Eclectic industrial mountain duplex
- [Small house concept design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/small-house-concept-design-pj-vj~2789450)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 3
- [Artists Dream](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/artists-dream-pj-vj~2792280)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 5
- [Casa Lunga](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/casa-lunga-pj-vj~1099848)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 23
- [Cabins on the Green](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cabins-on-the-green-pj-vj~1099703)
  - Location: Panorama, BC
  - Photos: 18
- [Silvertip mountain home](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/silvertip-mountain-home-pj-vj~1100307)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 19
- [Lookout Tower](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lookout-tower-pj-vj~1099803)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 7
- [Larch](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/larch-pj-vj~1100450)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 15
- [Stone Creek Lodge](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/stone-creek-lodge-pj-vj~1099767)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 9
- [Lady MacDonalds Bothy](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lady-macdonalds-bothy-pj-vj~1099988)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 10
- [Lake Edith Cottage](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/lake-edith-cottage-pj-vj~1099597)
  - Location: Jasper, AB
  - Photos: 10
- [Custom home design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/custom-home-design-pj-vj~2792252)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 6
- [Norwegian Bunky](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/norwegian-bunky-pj-vj~2792272)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 2
- [Rocky Mountain villa](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/rocky-mountain-villa-pj-vj~1100421)
  - Location: Canmore, AB
  - Photos: 2

[See all 34 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/russell-and-russell-design-studios-pfvwus-pf~504017908)

## Ideabooks

- [Kitchens](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/74466690/list/kitchens) — 4 ideas

[See all 1 ideabook](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/lesley-russell)

## Community Q&A

**Q: What is the siding?** *(in Photo Questions)*

The wood siding is gorgeous! What product is it? And what color?

A: The siding is clear western red cedar with a clear finish. The siding is simple planks and has 3/8" gaps between the planks with the weatherproof membrane visible behind.

**Q: Very light or very dark wood floors? Photos attached. Help!!** *(in Polls)*

Purchasing a two bed (~1000 sqft) condo and thinking about changing out the flooring to all hardwood. Having trouble deciding between very light or very dark wood colors. The unit is south facing so a lot of natural light, kitchen cabinets are painted gray, and I plan on having light gray walls with one dark gray / black accent wall. Would love any opinions!

A: Very dark could be problematic if south facing. Light clean wood could look unbalanced regarding what you are suggesting with the rest of the room. A rich toasted walnut would help balance everything while still giving the contrast I think you are looking for. Good luck

---

*Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-20.*