--- title: "Frits de Vries Architect Ltd. — Architects & Building Designers | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/frits-de-vries-architect-ltd-pfvwus-pf~662861144 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~662861144.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Frits de Vries Architect Ltd." category: ["Architects"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/4d630c300446cd66_1592-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "1834 W 1st Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia V6J 1G5, Canada" latitude: 49.2102 longitude: -123.0114 phone: "(604) 736-7820" website: http://www.frits.ca rating: 4.9 review_count: 15 best_of_houzz_awards: 8 followers: 537 last_updated: 2026-09-20 --- # Frits de Vries Architect Ltd. Original Houzz profile: [Frits de Vries Architect Ltd.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/frits-de-vries-architect-ltd-pfvwus-pf~662861144) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Architects - **Location:** Vancouver, BC - **Serves:** Arbutus Ridge, Barnet, Belcarra, Bowen Island, British Columbia, Burnaby, Coal Harbour, Deep Cove, Delta, Fishermans Cove, Hastings-Sunrise, Hollyburn, Killarney, Kitsilano, Ladner, Lynn Creek, New Westminster, North Burnaby, North Vancouver, Renfrew-Collingwood, Richmond, Steveston, Sunset, Vancouver, Victoria, West Point Grey, West Vancouver - **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (15 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 8 awards (2015–2025), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 10,000 Ideabook Saves Established in 1985, Frits de Vries Architect Ltd. is an award-winning, Vancouver-based Architectural firm with a focus on custom residential homes. We work with both private individuals and developers to create unique designs that are a both client and site specific. Our homes are highly tailored to the unique requirements of each client, and the designs are a direct reflection of not only their needs, but their personality. We act as consultants and advocates for our clients from concept design through to construction services. As designers of the first LEED Platinum Home in Western Canada, we strive for environmentally conscious designs that are as sustainable as they are elegant. Although we work primarily on custom residential homes for private individuals and developers, we have experience in municipal projects, complex additions and remedial work, retail design and interiors, as well as sustainable architecture. Frits de Vries Architect Ltd. has a successful track record in delivering projects on time and on budget. We are a mid-size firm of registered Architects, experienced designers and technicians. Our smaller size, flexible structure and diverse skill-set allow us to dedicate a well-balanced team to each project, and to engage in a collaborative process with each client. Each project receives personal attention from Frits, resulting in thoughtful design solutions, and smooth project delivery. We invite you to contact our office to discuss your project in more detail. ### Services Provided - Architectural Design - Sustainable Design - Energy-Efficient Homes - Green Building - Home Restoration - Complete Home Renovations - Custom Homes - Interior Design - Urban Planning ### Areas Served - Arbutus Ridge - Barnet - Belcarra - Bowen Island - British Columbia - Burnaby - Coal Harbour - Deep Cove - Delta - Fishermans Cove - Hastings-Sunrise - Hollyburn - Killarney - Kitsilano - Ladner - Lynn Creek - New Westminster - North Burnaby - North Vancouver - Renfrew-Collingwood - Richmond - Steveston - Sunset - Vancouver - Victoria - West Point Grey - West Vancouver ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Frits de Vries Architect Ltd. | | Address | 1834 W 1st Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia V6J 1G5, Canada | | Phone | (604) 736-7820 | | Website | http://www.frits.ca | | Followers on Houzz | 537 | ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Frits de Vries Architect Ltd.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/frits-de-vries-architect-ltd-pfvwus-pf~662861144) - **Website:** http://www.frits.ca - **Phone:** (604) 736-7820 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - MAIBC, MRAIC, Governor Generals medal, Georgie award, SAM award, RAIC Honorable mention. - **Best of Houzz:** 8 awards (2015–2025), for Design, Service. **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: 4.9 out of 5 — 15 reviews** ### Reviews **★★★★★ — Vince & Joann Lok, Oct. 2019** > As first time home builders, we are so pleased to have had Frits and his team design our beautiful, modern dream home. The entire process was seamless as they are exceptionally knowledgeable, collaborative, and patient with their clients. Their creative talents are expressed in their stunningly unique designs, with the result being a home that is a tranquil, functional piece of artwork. Not only is the FdVA team professional and very detail-oriented, they are also very humble and have truly been a pleasure to work with! **★★★★★ — Michael & Wendy Deighton, Aug. 2017** > We selected Frits de Vries to design our home because we wanted to a modern look that was not typical of the cookie cutter houses in our area. Frits took the time to sit down with us to get a real sense of the features we wanted inside and out. His team of architects are responsive and professional and he recommended great general contractors for us to choose from. It is a long process designing a house from scratch but we are now complete and are extremely happy with our new home. **Comment from Frits de Vries Architect Ltd.:** > Thank you very much for your kind words, Wendy! it was wonderful working with both you and Michael throughout the process, and we are happy that you are enjoying your new home. **★★★★★ — Ciacco Homes Ltd., Nov. 2016** > Frits and his team were engaged to design a contemporary, custom waterfront home for my client. As the general contractor, I had the pleasure of working with them throughout the build cycle. Together, we were able to deliver not only a stunning finished product for our client, but a showpiece to the Port Moody waterfront community. > > The team was responsive, detail-oriented, and very open minded to incorporating design aspects that push the envelope. > > This particular project was highly customized for our client. From the extensive home automation systems, to the selection and application of the highest quality materials, no detail was overlooked and no expense spared. Construction budget was approximately $1,400 per square foot. > > It was an absolute pleasure working with the Frits de Vries team, and I look forward to our next collaboration. > > Sam Ciacco > Ciacco Homes Ltd. **★★★★ — carmenramirez45, Nov. 2016** > My experience with this architectural firm was very positive > Building your own home is a very beautiful but emotional and stressful process > I found both Frits and Patrick always suppprtive and available to answer to my concerns > They guide you through the interior design making sure my personal style was respected. > They were helpful in finding agreeable compromises that will adjust to my budget > I will highly recommend them > The only aspect I will suggest to them is to improve their own internal communication process. **★★★★★ — cathiespires, Nov. 2015** > We were referred to Frits de Vries Architect by Graham Reid (MP Construction) as we had purchased a very narrow waterfront lot with unique issues.The team, especially Sandi Wiley, were excellent throughout the process. E-mails, phone calls and meetings were all handled promptly and resulted in an easy, friendly relationship. Our house is a statement to modern design and creative downsizing (i.e. an elevator, sloped sidewalk, plenty of storage etc) ensuring us a long future in our home. Their suggestions for interior and exterior finishes have resulted in a stunning house of which everyone involved should be proud. We are extremely fortunate of have such a house, in our favourite area, made by such talented people. **★★★★★ — rsharifi, Sept. 2015** > Services provided included concept and detailed design, interior design, submission for building permit and construction inspections for a 5800 sq.ft. three level residence in West Vancouver, British Columbia. Total construction cost: $1.8M. > Frits and his staff specialize in and excel at contemporary design. Their work has won several design awards. Frits is extremely knowledgable, creative and professional. We currently have another project in the design stage with Frits and will continue to use his services in the future. It has been a pleasure working with Frits and his team of talented architects. **★★★★★ — hildazeinali, July 2015** > Wonderful firm full of exceptionally talented individuals who have been providing people with beautiful design solutions for their projects! The end results are always so beautiful and functional. I love working with the team on projects and their clients are always so amazing! **★★★★★ — yvonneanddavid, June 2015** > Frits designed a beautiful waterfront house for us. We found him to be a dedicated artist who is passionate about what he does and really takes the time to create a unique home that blends in with the environment, while taking full advantage of the views and topography of the land. We enjoyed working with his team members, who were always helpful and responsive. **★★★★★ — MP Construction Ltd, June 2015** > I have been a contractor for over 16 years and it has been an exciting part of my career to have the opportunity to work with Frits and his staff since 2009. Their vision always leaves an ever lasting impression in the architectural world while meeting their clients needs and desires. I feel fortunate to play a small part in this as must their clients. > > Graham Reid > MP Construction Ltd. **★★★★★ — Heather Newman, March 2015** > Frits and his team were all wonderful to work with. We hired Frits for an ambitious renovation/rebuild of an oceanfront home with various site challenges as well as the addition of a guesthouse, pavilion and garden studio to the estate property-all beautifully designed and scaled to harmonize with the site and each other maximizing privacy, views, and a connection with nature. I was very involved with the project from start to finish and respected and valued the advice, expertise and collaboration of Frits and his team. > They have a wealth of professional experience, creativity, great attitude, and work well together and other professionals. The office was always friendly & welcoming whenever we popped in to consult on things. They were able to meet important deadlines for permitting & variances. They made many helpful suggestions for materials, custom finishes, & suppliers. **★★★★★ — Botanica Design, Nov. 2014** > Botanica Design has had the pleasure of collaborating with Frits de Vries Architect Ltd on several projects. There are countless things that make this firm special. They are extremely patient, kind and professional when interacting with their clients. Their office has a very relaxed and calm atmosphere while still remaining highly professional. But most importantly, they are excellent listeners and are always looking out for their client's best interest. The end result on each project has always been a happy client and a stunning, new modern home. We would definitely recommend them to friends and colleagues. **★★★★★ — jeremylsayers, Nov. 2014** > It was clear this company was invested in our project; before we had even hired them, they had been to city hall to do some preliminary research for the project. They were very aware of what we wanted in our new home and were able to provide creative solutions for what was a fairly complex design. Frits and company were able to mitigate the stresses in what is often a very trying experience. They always listened to our requests and questions and provided creative solutions. ## Selected projects - [Waterloo Duplex](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/waterloo-duplex-pj-vj~7718769) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 21 - [Alpine Meadows 2 Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/alpine-meadows-2-residence-pj-vj~7718748) - Location: Whistler, BC - Photos: 17 - [University Heights Townhomes](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/university-heights-townhomes-pj-vj~7718774) - Location: Squamish, BC - Photos: 16 - [Riley Park Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/riley-park-residence-pj-vj~7718751) - Location: Vancouver, BC - Photos: 20 - [Clover Point Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/clover-point-residence-pj-vj~7391738) - Location: Victoria, BC - Photos: 20 - [Halfmoon Bay Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/halfmoon-bay-residence-pj-vj~7718791) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 26 - [Point Grey Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/point-grey-residence-pj-vj~6898540) - Location: Vancouver, BC - Photos: 16 - [Alma Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/alma-residence-pj-vj~6645050) - Location: Vancouver, BC - Photos: 10 - [Pearlhaus](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pearlhaus-pj-vj~6645027) - Location: Vancouver, BC - Photos: 16 - [Arbutus Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/arbutus-residence-pj-vj~6644946) - Location: Vancouver, BC - Photos: 12 - Description: Lot Area: 5,200 s.f. Square Footage: 3,600 s.f. - [Alpine Meadows Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/alpine-meadows-residence-pj-vj~6206002) - Location: Whistler, BC - Photos: 24 - [Boundary Bay Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/boundary-bay-residence-pj-vj~6206072) - Location: Delta, BC - Photos: 36 - Description: Situated on the tidal flats of Centennial Beach, the Boundary Bay Residence was originally conceived and realized by locally renowned Architect Daniel Evan White in 1990. A master of balance and the interplay between shape and form, the unassuming modernist architect, who began his career under the mentorship of Arthur Erickson, was responsible for hundreds of residences up and down the West Coast of Canada. Boundary Bay Residence was bought by our clients in 2015 with a view to sensitively remo… - [Cove Cliff Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/cove-cliff-residence-pj-vj~6206251) - Location: North Vancouver, BC - Photos: 16 - [Chancellor Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/chancellor-residence-pj-vj~327957) - Location: Vancouver, BC - Photos: 15 - Description: Located in the ‘Little Australia’ neighbourhood of the UBC Endowment Lands, in Vancouver, this 4,750 sq.ft residence was conceived as an exclusive, for-market home. Located directly adjacent to Pacific Spirit Park, the FdVA design team identified the forest setting of the neighbourhood as a driving design element. The house is conceived as a pavilion in a park - a loose arrangement of simple, bold elements that float in a park-like atmosphere. With ample garden and courtyard spaces, the design p… - [Tsawwassen Beach Home 2](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/tsawwassen-beach-home-2-pj-vj~1992907) - Location: Delta, BC - Photos: 21 - Description: 2017 - Winner of the Architectural Institute of British Columbia Lieutenant Governor’s Award of Merit. Located on the beachfront in Tsawwassen, BC, this compact home blurs the boundary between contemporary interior and the natural beachfront. Situated on a narrow 35’ wide lot, fronting Centennial Beach, FdVA designed the efficient and open plan with a focus on ocean views, all the while affording considerable privacy within. The site steps down towards the street with a tandem garage building fr… - [Pacific Spirit Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/pacific-spirit-residence-pj-vj~2570003) - Location: Vancouver, BC - Photos: 18 - Description: Located adjacent to Pacific Spirit Park, this 3,800 sq.ft home and 400 sq.ft Laneway House was designed for a family of five. The design addresses the clients’ desire for a modest and integrated presence within the neighbourhood, whilst using contemporary detailing, and high quality natural materials. Crisp lines and reveals, practical elimination of visible flashings and vent strips, and perfectly flush faces all enhance the home’s quiet appeal. The integration of the house within the landscape… - [Port Moody Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/port-moody-residence-pj-vj~2721067) - Location: Port Moody, BC - Photos: 20 - [MacKenzie Heights](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/mackenzie-heights-pj-vj~748639) - Location: Vancouver, BC - Photos: 14 - Description: Situated on the West side of Vancouver, this family home sits on a gently sloping site with oblique downtown and mountain views from the front of the house. The rear garden faces south. The house is designed for ample indoor-outdoor living opportunities, as well as a sense of connection to the gardens and view. The main floor level is placed low enough for easy access to the rear garden, but high enough to allow light into the lower floor. Two courtyards and a lightwell further enhance the lower… - [Collingwood Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/collingwood-residence-pj-vj~1307360) - Location: Bowen Island, BC - Photos: 16 - Description: The Collingwood Residence is located on a private, 10-acre lot surrounded by forest on Bowen Island’s West Coast. The home is divided into three buildings connected by glass breezeways, which provide a separation of public and private spaces while maintaining gorgeous ocean views. Social experiences are centered in the open kitchen, dining, and living space located in the central building, while the master and guest suites are located in buildings to either side. Floor to ceiling sliding glass d… - [West 8th Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/west-8th-residence-pj-vj~1216388) - Location: Vancouver, BC - Photos: 12 - Description: The West 8th Avenue Residence is set on a modestly-sized lot in the heart of Point Grey. FdVA designed this home as a response to our clients careers in theatre, and their interest in combining Japanese principles of art with Western Architecture. While the local zoning by-law acted as a constraint on the site, FdVA took a playful approach to the design and assembly of form. The home’s design maximizes the space within the rigid envelope imposed. The simple shapes embody one of the principal ten… [See all 36 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/architects-and-building-designers/frits-de-vries-architect-ltd-pfvwus-pf~662861144) ## Ideabooks - [Interiors-General](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/10090026/list/interiors-general) — 5 ideas - [Kitchens](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/6611390/list/kitchens) — 8 ideas - [Sponsored Photos](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/72221295/list/sponsored-photos) — 9 ideas - [Point House/Aerie Images for Website](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/70743979/list/point-house-aerie-images-for-website) — 18 ideas - [Marisa](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/61094631/list/marisa) — 1 idea - [Exteriors - General](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/19353803/list/exteriors-general) — 8 ideas - [lighting](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/7530430/list/lighting) — 1 idea [See all 7 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/fritsdevriesarchitectltd) ## Community Q&A **Q: Wall Cabinet doors** *(in Photo Questions)* What are the wall cabinet door materials (glossy white)? the company? A: Hi Roni, Thank you for your interest in our project. The upper cabinets are a backpainted glass on with a concealed aluminum frame. They were designed by our office, and produced by a local millworker. Best, The Team at FdVA **Q: where can I Find this sectional?** *(in Photo Questions)* Im Looking for a sectional in my house that has the color dark green and Im Looking for one that has thr micro fibre material I cant Find iT anywhere! A: Hi Nancy, the sectional in this image was custom made for the client by Bombast in Vancouver. We would recommend contacting a local custom furniture maker if you can't find what you are looking for in stores. Best, The Team at FdVA **Q: what is the wood type and finish - love it!** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi Vicki, Thank you for your interest in our project! The lower millwork finish is a quarter sawn white oak veneer. Best, The Team at FdVA **Q: What is onthe end unit** *(in Photo Questions)* Is that a photo or TV shot on the end unit? Thank you A: You're welcome, Edye! **Q: Floor tiles** *(in Photo Questions)* Hello! I love these tiles, where are they from? A: Hello jkinvan, Thank you for your interest in our project! Unfortunately this project has been archived, and the tile specification is no longer available. Best, The Team at FdVA **Q: The source for your wall mounted vanity?Spent hours searching online.** *(in Photo Questions)* I have a very tiny house. This vanity or a configuration with the exact clean lines would work beautifully. Literally have spent 30 or 40 hours looking at wall mounted cabinets, haven't found one I like as much as this! Thanks. A: Hi Amanda, The vanity is a natural White Oak veneer (real wood). It is rift-cut, stained and lacquered. Thank you, The Team at FdVA --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-09-20.*