An Ankenman Marchand Architects designed building on University Drive in Surrey
BRITISH COLUMBIA – Ankenman Marchand Architects is a team of architects and designers that has been providing award winning service for over three decades in multiple project typologies for public and private clients.
Established in 1991, the firm owned by partners Tim Ankenman and Francois Marchand believes its architectural work is central to building an engaging, humane and sustainable future.
Timothy Ankenman and Francois Marchand
“Our work knows no geographical boundaries,” says Ankenman, who notes the firm has been commissioned to do work throughout Canada including Greater Vancouver, the Sunshine Coast, Vancouver Island, the Fraser Valley, the Thompson-Okanagan and the U.S. “We are constantly searching for new sustainable methodologies, products, software and overall approaches to the design industry, with the goal of advocating for low energy, high performance and human centered design.”
The firm’s resume features a diversity of projects, including single and multi-family residential, mixed use, heritage restoration and preservation, commercial (including breweries, hotels and restaurants), institutional (including childcare facilities), industrial development, interior design, and urban design and master planning.
Tim points out that some of the company’s most successful products result from their expertise and public consultation when getting projects started.
“We believe firmly that engaging with stake-holders including community members, local authorities and organizations early on allows for a more holistic design process,” says Marchand. “This strategic engagement fosters a sense of ownership and shared vision, leading to increased support, smoother approvals, and a higher likelihood of successful project implementation.
“Our firm’s experience in navigating the complexities of public consultation ensures that potential challenges and concerns are addressed proactively, helping to build trust, mitigate conflicts and ultimately create spaces that have a positive and lasting impact on the communities they serve.”
Ankenman Marchand Architects has been growing steadily, focusing on public works with BC Housing and First Nations for affordable and sustainable housing solutions.
The Crest in Vancouver, a LEED Platinum building
“We’ve also embraced the potential of new sustainable technologies like mass timber design, recognizing its numerous environmental and aesthetic benefits,” Ankenman states, adding they are currently working on several such projects across the lower mainland. “We’re also really intrigued with its potential as a biophilic material and how it can establish deep connections to place and nature within architecture.”
The firm’s commitment to client relationships and their adaptability and innovation have been major contributing factors to their success.
“We work closely with each client to see their vision and understand their needs and goals,” Marchand says. “At AMA, we firmly believe that exceptional projects are the outcome of great individuals working in unison. We have a very senior level of associates and employees that have been with us for more than a decade. We take pride in our team’s diverse back-grounds, experiences, and perspectives, which we seamlessly integrate into our design process.
“We thrive in an open and collaborative environment where every voice is valued and respected,” he adds. “I believe we’re united in the pursuit of excellence and striving to create spaces that make a positive and lasting impact on the people and places they serve.”
