--- title: "Synthesis Design Inc. — Building Designers and Drafters | Houzz" canonical_html_url: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/building-designers-and-drafters/synthesis-design-inc-pfvwus-pf~880900333 markdown_url: https://www.houzz.com/md/professionals/pf~880900333.md entity_type: LocalBusiness business_name: "Synthesis Design Inc." category: ["Building Designers and Drafters"] image: https://st.hzcdn.com/fimgs/9433709c0c126171_1789-w400-h400-b0-p0--.jpg address: "258 East First Street, North Vancouver, British Columbia V7L 1B3, Canada" latitude: 49.3363 longitude: -123.0644 phone: "(604) 980-2087" website: http://www.synthesisdesign.ca rating: 4.9 review_count: 128 best_of_houzz_awards: 22 followers: 1506 last_updated: 2026-08-17 --- # Synthesis Design Inc. Original Houzz profile: [Synthesis Design Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/building-designers-and-drafters/synthesis-design-inc-pfvwus-pf~880900333) ## Professional summary - **Primary category:** Building Designers and Drafters - **Location:** North Vancouver, BC - **Serves:** Anmore, Belcarra, Burnaby, Calgary, Coal Harbour, Coquitlam, Deep Cove, Edmonton, Kitsilano, Lions Bay, Lynn Creek, North Burnaby, North Vancouver, Port Coquitlam, Vancouver, West Vancouver, Whistler - **Houzz rating:** 4.9 out of 5 (128 reviews) - **Best of Houzz:** 22 awards (2012–2026), for Design, Service. ## About ### Houzz Badges - Star Houzzer - 5 Star Houzzer - Houzz Influencer - Recommended on Houzz - 100,000 Ideabook Saves - Best of Houzz winner - Online consultation - 27 years in business SYNTHESIS, BY DEFINITION: “THE COMBINING OF ELEMENTS TO CREATE A UNIFIED WHOLE” Founded in 1993, Synthesis Design Inc. is a talented and dedicated team of designers that specialize in residential projects from renovations and additions, to complete custom home and interior design. Our design firm is a collaborative mix and brainstorming of ideas, concepts and practical application. We work in an environment that welcomes open dialogue and engagement. Projects, at various stages, are displayed in our studio as we collectively search and discover our client’s unique vision. Design is everywhere and in every thing. You just need to know where to look, or what to look for. That is what inspires us. While each project is unique, there is always a set of rules to follow (or break)! No two sites are alike. Throw in a wish list that exceeds a budget, a bunch of municipal rules and restrictions, and a deadline.....now our curiosity is piqued. Design is everywhere and everyone at Synthesis Design is dedicated to finding unique and thought provoking solutions every time. That is what gets us up in the morning. ### Services Provided - 3D Rendering - Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Basement Design - Bathroom Design - Bedroom Design - Building Design - Custom Bathroom Vanities - Custom Bookcases - Custom Built-ins - Custom Entertainment Centers - Custom Home - Custom Home Bars - Custom Homes - Custom Kitchen Cabinets - Custom Murphy Beds - Custom Pantries - Deck Design - Dining Room Design - Drafting - Energy-Efficient Homes - Entry Design - Floor Plans - Furniture Selection - Garage Design - Green Building - Historic Building Conservation - Home Additions - Home Extensions - Home Gym Design & Construction - Home Office Design - Home Remodeling - Home Theater Design - House Plans - Interior Design - Kids Bedroom Design - Kitchen Design - Laundry Room Design - Lighting Design - Living Room Design - Mudroom Design - Multigenerational Homes - New Home Construction - Nursery Design - Prefab Houses - Project Management - Site Planning - Space Planning - Sustainable Design - Universal Design - Wine Cellar Design ### Areas Served - Anmore - Belcarra - Burnaby - Calgary - Coal Harbour - Coquitlam - Deep Cove - Edmonton - Kitsilano - Lions Bay - Lynn Creek - North Burnaby - North Vancouver - Port Coquitlam - Vancouver - West Vancouver - Whistler ## Business Details | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Business Name | Synthesis Design Inc. | | Address | 258 East First Street, North Vancouver, British Columbia V7L 1B3, Canada | | Phone | (604) 980-2087 | | Website | http://www.synthesisdesign.ca | | Followers on Houzz | 1506 | **Social profiles:** - Facebook — http://www.facebook.com/pages/synthesis-design/79702514949 - LinkedIn — http://www.linkedin.com/company/synthesis-design-inc - Blog — https://www.instagram.com/synthesisdesign/ ## Offers Free Design Consultations! ## Contact - **Houzz profile:** [Synthesis Design Inc.](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/building-designers-and-drafters/synthesis-design-inc-pfvwus-pf~880900333) - **Website:** http://www.synthesisdesign.ca - **Phone:** (604) 980-2087 ## Credentials **Certifications & Awards** - District of North Vancouver Heritage Award - Style at Home Magazine - Canadian Homes & Cottages - Design Quarterly - Western Living Designer of the Year Finalists 2021 - **Best of Houzz:** 22 awards (2012–2026), for Design, Service. ## Reviews **Overall rating: 4.9 out of 5 — 128 reviews** *Aspect averages:* - Work Quality: 49.0 - Communication: 50.0 - Value: 48.0 ### Reviews **★★★★★ — A&R West Coast Contracting, June 2023** > The Synthesis team has been a dream to work with. Their knowledge, skill, communication and attention to detail is at an elite level. As a general contractor, we get a sense of excitement when we know they are behind the design. It doesn't get any better than taking their vision and turning it into exactly what the customer had dreamed up. We are ecstatic to be partners with them on projects and would recommend their services to anyone. > > We killed it on this solarium!!!! **★★★★★ — Greg Hasler, May 2022** > Team Hasler has recently been working closely with Julie and Alice from Synthesis Design on a custom home in Burnaby, BC. We are coming to completion on the project and we can't say enough good things about their team. Our clients have enjoyed working with them, as we have found them organized, detail-oriented (very important when designing a new home), and on the ball when we have had to problem solve, which is inevitable in home building. We can't wait to share more of our project after we have completed our photoshoot! **Comment from Synthesis Design Inc.:** > Thank you Team Hasler for your kind words! We have loved working with your team as well. Your attention to the small details and open communication with us makes these new build projects a dream to work on. We can't wait to see this one complete and for the next project together! - Julie and Alice **★★★★★ — HU-246080622, Nov. 2021** > The Synthesis Design team is the best. Fabulous to work with, excellent ideas, great follow-up. It has been a pleasure working with them. **Comment from Synthesis Design Inc.:** > Thanks for those kind words, Dave. It has been our pleasure to work with you on your Whistler addition, both architecturally and with the interior design. We hope you have many years of new memories. All the best. **★★★★★ — HU-466979414, July 2021** > We've been working with Synthesis on our renovation project in Deep Cove. We're still very early in the project but so far Synthesis have been outstanding to work with. Super clear communication, no upselling, very honest about what we can and can't do, and always on hand to offer advice. > James and Brad have been wonderful. > Hopefully, we'll get through more of the project over the next 6-12 months so we can update this review beyond the early stages of our project. **Comment from Synthesis Design Inc.:** > Hi guys, > Thank you so much for the kind words and we are looking forward to working with you on the Design of your home. As always, please do not hesitate to contact myself or Brad throughout the process and we're more than happy to talk with you! > Thank you again, > James **★★★★★ — shannonmuir, June 2021** > We have had excellent service from Curtis and Brad to design our laneway house. They have great ideas and advice, they are practical, budget minded, and listened to our ideas enthusiastically. I am happy to recommend them to anyone. Thanks so much guys! **Comment from Synthesis Design Inc.:** > Thank you , Shannon, for your kind words. You have been flexible and patient throughout a laneway home permitting process that has yet to be simple! We look forward to seeing your custom ModCube laneway soon. All the best, Curt (and Brad) **★★★★★ — Kou Chaichian, March 2021** > Our new house is a gem thanks to the Synthesis team's artistry, experience, careful attention to detail and can-do attitude. The architects welcomed and distilled our ideas to create a unique home that matches our vision and lifestyle. Likewise, the interior designers captured our aesthetic, at once showcasing the home's fine architecture and making it feel relaxed and inviting. What a relief it was throughout the project to know that our home was always in the best hands. **Comment from Synthesis Design Inc.:** > Kou and Amanda, Thank you for your kind words! It was such a pleasure working on this project with you both. We really believe great clients make great houses and it certainly shows in your house. We really enjoyed the entire process from the early design stages to the final completed project. We wish you all the best in the future! -Brad and the entire Synthesis Team. **★★★★★ — herunter, March 2021** > Alice and Julie were a wonderful team to work with! They helped us with a new layout for our kitchen and great room and we love how it turned out. They were respectful of the budget, timely in getting the drawings to us, and provided great suggestions for the design. We would use them again and recommend them to anyone looking to make home improvements! **Comment from Synthesis Design Inc.:** > Sandie and Tony, > It was so great working with you and helping with the layout of your kitchen and great room. Great clients make for great projects! We love how your space turned out. We hope we can work together again soon! > Warmly, Julie and Alice **★★★★★ — HU-934741234, Feb. 2021** > Sythesis helped us with our backyard covered patio project in town. End result was better than we could have imagined. Their knowledge of local regulations and requirements was unsurpassed and allowed us to build our dream back yard escape. We got along wonderfully with James and Kurt was always a call away when his needed. > > Our first experience with Synthesis was excellent also when we relied on them to "Whistlerize" the family lake house on the Sunshine Coast. Project included large wrap around patio extension, large pergola using heavy Fir timbers, and complete exterior reno. **Comment from Synthesis Design Inc.:** > Chris, thank you very much. You set your standard and expectations high but more importantly, you are creative, patient and flexible clients which made the design process so much fun. I hope we managed to achieve your deck 'envy' and wish you all best on your sun soaked patio! Regards, James **★★★★★ — Darla Briggs, Feb. 2021** > We chose Synthesis Design to build our West Coast Contemporary home from the recommendation of our realtor. The team at Synthesis made it an engaging, personal experience and had creative solutions to things we had not even conceived. During our meetings they were interested in hearing about our lifestyle and how to make our new home functional and customized for the needs of our family. They worked with our ideas and with our budget and offered their suggestions based on their expertise. I’m so happy with the modern staircase they designed that connects the 3 levels of our home with long pendant lights that extend down the centre from the top floor to the bottom. And, how my husband’s home office is behind a door hidden in a feature wall. Our house has lot’s of lights from the large windows and we can view the gorgeous sunset every night from the bedrooms. Synthesis provided continued service long after the design phase and continued to advise throughout construction. People often ask who designed our house and we even get people knocking asking if we would sell! Synthesis really didn’t miss a thing when it comes to function and exceptional modern design. **Comment from Synthesis Design Inc.:** > Darla, thank you for your kind words. You and Bobby were great clients who were engaged throughout the process. Your home really speaks to your vision and your attenion to detail. We wish you and your family many years of happiness in your home. All the best, Curt **★★★★★ — Fusion Woodwork, Dec. 2020** > Loved working with Synthesis - they had quick answers to our many design detail questions, and were easy to work with when dealing with the inevitable site challenges. Lynda and Alice were also great during the walk through which made for a positive completion to this exciting project. Looking forward to working with them again! **Comment from Synthesis Design Inc.:** > Thank you Scott! It was such a pleasure to work with you. We appreciated your open communication, attention to detail and craftsmanship. We look forward to working together again soon! **★★★★★ — Brian Gibbard, Nov. 2020** > The team at Synthesis is excellent. We have worked with them to renovate our house extensively and have found them to provide outstanding design services as well as advice and guidance during construction. Synthesis does not give its services away but we always feel that we are getting very good value. The work is done well and promptly and the results have been renovations that meld seamlessly with the existing structure. > We would certainly recommend Synthesis to anyone considering hiring architects or designers. **Comment from Synthesis Design Inc.:** > Thank you Brian, for your continued support and trust in Synthesis Design. Our entire team always jumps at the chance to collaborate with you and Lorri. You have been one of our most longstanding clients, dating back to 1994, and we are proud to continue to make your home something special. Ts marks, at least our 4th project together. **★★★★★ — HU-629683369, Nov. 2020** > Synthesis is a fantastic company with a skilled team to cover all needs. I had a great experience with Alice and Julie who were both patient with me and enjoyable to work with. I hope to be in a position to do another renovation with them again soon!! > You won't be disappointed. **Comment from Synthesis Design Inc.:** > Stuart! Thank you for the kind review. You have been so great to work with, we can't wait for the next project! ## Selected projects - [We Are Synthesis Design](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/we-are-synthesis-design-pj-vj~6168761) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 1 - Description: Synthesis Design Inc. is a full service residential design firm focusing on custom home design, laneway homes, interior design, and renovations and additions. Our team of experienced designers and project managers have the innovative and technical expertise to manage all aspects of the design process, and approach every project with the focus on each unique client, their lifestyle, and their needs. Founded in 1993, our many years in the design industry has proven that the best design come from d… - [Skyline Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/skyline-residence-pj-vj~7680272) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 10 - [Bonnymuir Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bonnymuir-residence-pj-vj~7680261) - Location: West Vancouver, BC - Photos: 12 - Description: Set on a flanking corner lot in the British Properties, the Bonnymuir Residence is a contemporary home designed to navigate complex site constraints while capturing expansive mountain and ocean views. The gently sloped site, bounded by two street frontages and no rear yard, required a thoughtful layout that balances openness with privacy. Organized across three levels, the main floor features an open-concept great room oriented to the east to take in the views through large sliding glass doors.… - [Esplanade Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/esplanade-residence-pj-vj~7592356) - Location: West Vancouver, BC - Photos: 9 - Description: The Esplanade Residence was designed with our clients’ goals and designer’s vision in mind. The home blends simple design, energy efficiency, and beautiful ocean views, while meeting BC Energy Step Code 5. The angled south-facing façade maximizes sunlight and views, while the steeply sloped lot is optimized with multi-tier retaining walls, landscaped green spaces, and a private shaded courtyard below the parking level. The main floor offers bright, open living spaces oriented toward the ocean, w… - [Sutherland Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/sutherland-residence-pj-vj~7592348) - Location: North Vancouver, BC - Photos: 13 - Description: In this North Vancouver mid-century gem, the seamless connection between architecture and nature is immediately apparent. The two-storey home was reimagined to maximize space and functionality, blending modern living with timeless mid-century charm. A large NanaWall connects the home to a cozy covered patio, blending indoor and outdoor living. The dining room extends into a versatile four-season space, perfect for entertaining year-round. Exposed natural beams add warmth and character, making th… - [Orlohma Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/orlohma-residence-pj-vj~7435401) - Location: North Vancouver, BC - Photos: 36 - Description: In this farmhouse-inspired home, you are greeted by an inviting open concept layout. The kitchen has a custom-designed hood fan featuring wood trim, that complements the island and millwork flanking the fireplace. Quartzite countertops with a delicate profile in the kitchen are complemented by mixed metals, a tasteful mix of polished nickel and oil-rubbed bronze hardware throughout. The custom natural stone surrounding the fireplace is meticulously designed with a grey marble. The Nana wall conn… - [Edgemont Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/edgemont-residence-pj-vj~7326094) - Location: North Vancouver, BC - Photos: 17 - Description: This 3-bedroom rancher was a young, professional couple’s dream to make their own. We reconfigured and opened up the space, forming a spacious great room while preserving individual character within the open plan. A standout feature is the wood slat wall, artfully dividing the entry and living room, fostering a connection between the two. Beside the entry closet, we created an arched niche with natural stone and fluted cabinetry, turning a "drop zone" into a stylish storage solution. The living… - [Ruth Crescent](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/ruth-crescent-pj-vj~7326081) - Location: North Vancouver, BC - Photos: 15 - Description: Nestled in North Vancouver's Lynn Valley, this family home underwent a remarkable transformation. The original interior had not seen a makeover since the owners purchased it over 20 years ago, and its outdated layout called for a complete renovation. The kitchen, once a constricted and fragmented space with angled walls, was the project's centerpiece. Walls were removed, enhancing spatial flow, and creating a new focal point for the house. The kitchen redesign prioritized functionality for the f… - [Westport Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/westport-residence-pj-vj~6946369) - Location: West Vancouver, BC - Photos: 18 - Description: Built into the vertical face of the rock, the Westport Residence is a study of mass and void. Completed in early 2022, this home is a combination of elements to create a unified, contemporary home that compliments the west coast aesthetic of the neighborhood. This project was made possible only through an HRA (Heritage Revitalization Act) which serves to protect significant architecture. A large lot with an existing house on the top of the rock face, The Sykes Residence is a west coast modern ho… - [Braeside Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/braeside-residence-pj-vj~7030724) - Location: Burnaby, BC - Photos: 22 - Description: At the foot of Burnaby Mountain, with stunning views up Indian Arm, the Braeside Residence is a uniquely modern home. Situated on a steep sloped, pie shaped lot this project was designed in collaboration with our clients and reflects their elevated yet laid back lifestyle. The floor plan creates an open living space to maximize the incredible views beyond. One is welcomed to the home by a natural landscape of greenery and architectural concrete. The top floor features a large outdoor entertainin… - [Kings Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/kings-residence-pj-vj~6548587) - Location: West Vancouver, BC - Photos: 22 - Description: From the start, this project was designed and inspired by clients who often work from home. The form was influenced by the need for a work space that felt separate from the house when clients visit, yet is still connected. The central entry acts as a welcoming entrance but it also acts as a divider between the public office space and the private spaces which are arranged perpendicular to the entry. This form allowed us to create a beautiful courtyard that is framed by the “L” shape of the house.… - [Villa Vertigo](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/villa-vertigo-pj-vj~6743099) - Location: Madeira Park, BC - Photos: 31 - Description: Built on a dramatically steep sloped, narrow site, that has overlapping waterfront and rear setbacks, this site was deemed un-buildable with no allowable building footprint. Synthesis Design was eager to take on the challenge of designing a modern summer residence at Madeira Park on the Sunshine Coast. After many design panels, relaxation request for variances, along with the design of a residential sewage treatment plant, approvals were granted. Vertigo dramatically overhangs the ocean with lar… - [Dollarton Coach House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/dollarton-coach-house-pj-vj~7241325) - Location: North Vancouver, BC - Photos: 7 - [Bayridge Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/bayridge-residence-pj-vj~7020009) - Location: West Vancouver, BC - Photos: 15 - [St. Georges Modern](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/st-georges-modern-pj-vj~6415990) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 14 - [Eastridge Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/eastridge-residence-pj-vj~3410439) - Location: North Vancouver, BC - Photos: 12 - Description: Inspired by the protected bay of Deep Cove and the vistas up Indian Arm, the dramatic steep sloped site called out for framing views from every level. This modern home visually welcomes its visitors with a large glass stair core and an oversized simple wood pivot door. The main level is an open plan with large sliding doors accessing the living and eating deck, high ceilings, and a feature stair core with custom designed rusted metal railing. This home may dominate nature from its various view s… - [Beverley Crescent Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/beverley-crescent-residence-pj-vj~6420292) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 13 - [Winton Residence](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/winton-residence-pj-vj~1364605) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 18 - Description: The design of the Winton residence is best described through the design process itself. Both our clients had specific and distinct notions of what their home should be. As with most creative couples, their ideas didn’t always directly relate to one another. Their end goal, however, did. It was our job to facilitate common ground while still creating a high style, cohesive design. Our client’s youngest daughter summed it up best. With arms outstretched: “ My Mom and Dad had ideas, and this is wha… - [Westcoast Cottage Vibes](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/westcoast-cottage-vibes-pj-vj~2606994) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 25 - Description: Situated on a flat, corner lot, this traditional home has responded to both streets via a large covered entry porch on one side, and a low lying roof on the other, to give the appearance of a friendly, 1 story home. Tucked in the upper portion of the roof are bedrooms and bathrooms with vaulted ceilings and a large open stair core to bring natural light throughout the center of the home. - [Vision House](https://www.houzz.com/hznb/projects/vision-house-pj-vj~90770) - Location: Not specified - Photos: 6 - Description: Working closely with our clients and Kelly Deck Design, we created a thoughtfully detailed Craftsman style home characterized by an open and light filled interior, and a connection to outdoor spaces. A generous double height entry foyer leads to the elegant living, dining, and kitchen areas, while a wall of concertina doors opens to a slate sundeck and adjoining outdoor room, featuring expansive views of the ocean and city below. The pool deck level is accessed by a hidden door disguised as wall… [See all 81 projects](https://www.houzz.com/professionals/building-designers-and-drafters/synthesis-design-inc-pfvwus-pf~880900333) ## Ideabooks - [Rios Ellis Carmel California](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/145911720/list/rios-ellis-carmel-california) — 19 ideas - [Editorials](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/107079029/list/editorials) — 3 ideas [See all 2 ideabooks](https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/users/synthesisdesign) ## Community Q&A **Q: what is this exterior paint color?** *(in Photo Questions)* A: Hi Anna, Thanks for your patience on our response. The paint colour is Sherwin Williams SW 7069 Iron Ore. Hope this helps! Cheers. **Q: what is present cost to build in North Va** *(in Photo Questions)* With no furniture - how much would present cost be in North Vancouver A: Hi Nina, Thanks for your question. For traditional construction of any new building we are currently seeing an average of about $400-$500/square foot. This may vary depending on your project scope and the quality of finishes you select. However, if your interested in a laneway and willing to explore different building options (prefab, modular, etc.) that cost could be reduced significantly. Give us a call if you have any other questions, 604-980-2087. **Q: Lagos blue from caesarstone discontinued** *(in Photo Questions)* Caesarstone has discontinued Lagos blue. If you believe they still have it can you point me to a vendor who I can purchase it from? A: Hi Raji, Check out these potential resources: https://flooringandrenovations.com/product/4350-lagos-blue/ https://graniteworx.com/quartz/lagos-blue/ https://www.daltile.com/product/Lagos-Blue-Limestone Unfortunately, we have not specified this tile ourselves and a few years, but would recommend starting with these above resources. Goodluck with your project! **Q: please share dimensions of mirror** *(in Photo Questions)* Please can you share the dimensions of the mirror. Thanks! A: The mirror dimensions are : 4ft 2in x 1ft 7in. 1/8" bevel, mounted 1 1/2" off the wall. **Q: countertop color is brownish?** *(in Photo Questions)* It is stated that this countertop is Caesar stone Lagos blue 4350. Is that correct? Is that still available from caesarstone? If so where? Also it’s a brownish color? A: Hi Raji, Yes that is correct: the countertop is from Caesarstone, Quartz Stone in Lagos Blue (4350), and is still available with Caesarstone. It is a warm brown-gray toned stone. **Q: countertop brand and color** *(in Photo Questions)* What exact brand and name of color is the countertop ? What color is it? Brown? A: The countertop is from Caesarstone Canada, Quartz Stone in Lagos Blue (4350), square 1/16 eased edge. The colour is a warm gray-brown stone. --- *Source: Houzz professional profile. Reflects the profile as of 2026-08-17.*