SERVICES

How We Work

Project Phases

The Gravity design process is organized into into six phases. Every project is different, but most progress through the following: Predesign, Schematic Design, Design Development, Bidding, Construction Documents and Construction Administration.:

  • We prepare feasibility studies before design begins to determine the highest and best use of a property. These studies surface opportunities and challenges in urban design, land use bylaws, municipal policies, transportation and waste management plans, and often political will.

    The study can take on different forms depending on the client’s requirements. It can be a simple report, a site layout, or even a conceptual design with renderings. You can look at a selection of predesign work Gravity has done here.

  • “Schematic design is the phase of the project during which the client’s requirements and desires determined in the pre-design phase are resolved into physical, architectural form. The purpose of this phase is to transform the results of the pre-design investigations into a concept of “what will be built.” *

    Our team transforms our clients’ requirements into an architectural form that meets their needs, while conforming to local Bylaws and Codes. Through a series of client meetings, we present to our client design iterations that each in turn aim to better meet their requirements. Typically we will resolve site layouts, floor plans, then exteriors each in turn, with the entire design clarifying as we proceed. This phase is complete when our client approves the schematic design.

  • “During the design development phase, the selected scheme, which was prepared during the schematic design phase, is refined and developed in more detail. Whereas the schematic design generally describes “what” is being built, the design development phase explores and determines “how” it is being built and how it will operate, with design features of the project more fully developed.”*

    This design development phase is structured around the development permit approval process. Usually, during the first half of this phase, Gravity—along with other professional consultants—prepare a development permit package to present to our client for approval. This package presents the project in more detail, and incorporates information about the site, as well as the exterior materials and finishes.

    Upon client approval, the package is submitted to the appropriate development authority (the City). Gravity then negotiates with the City on a design configuration that the City will approve. This phase is complete when the City releases the development permit.

  • “The construction documents stage of the design services is generally where...the project information developed and consolidated at the previous stages and accepted by the client comes together in the building’s definitive design solutions for all its elements and components, across all disciplines and at a level of comprehensiveness, depth and precision appropriate to the project’s chosen methods of procurement, construction work and delivery.”*

    The construction documents phase is structured around the building permit approval process. Usually, during the first part of this phase, Gravity coordinates with other professional consultants to prepare a building permit package to present to our client for their approval. This set of drawings is coordinated with structural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical, envelope, energy modelling and other consultants to provide a consistent and detailed set of instructions for how to build the project.

    Upon client approval, Gravity submits the package to the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). Gravity then responds to the plans examiners comments to prepare a set of permit drawings that the AHJ will approve. Upon building permit approval, Gravity prepares an issued for construction (IFC) set of drawings for the client to build from. The issuing of the IFC set completes this phase.

  • When a client asks for Gravity’s help in the selection of a builder using a competitive bid process, Gravity can assist the client to solicit bids from contractors so that he or she can award the construction contract. We generally recommend that clients bring a construction manager onto the project team as early as possible so that their expertise is available during the design process.

  • During the construction phase, if the client and the builder are different entities, Gravity can administer the construction contract between them to ensure that the terms are met and payments are appropriate. When this is not required, Gravity will simply fulfill our professional obligations for field review and field review coordination as outlined in Sentence 2.4.4.1.(1) of Division C of the Alberta Building Code (ABC) or Subsection 2.2.7.3., of the British Columbia Building Code. To this end, Gravity’s Contract Administrator, under an architect’s supervision, undertakes both the office and field functions of this phase.

    Depending on the project, these functions may include reviewing the contractor’s performance in maintaining both the construction schedule and the standards or quality of construction; providing guidance to the contractor by interpreting the contract documents, answering questions verbally and, when required, issuing necessary documentation, including supplemental instructions, proposed changes, change directives or change orders in order to allow the progress of work on site; fulfilling performance standards for general review as required by the Building Code, the client-architect agreement, authorities having jurisdiction, and provincial or territorial associations of architects; and analyzing and adjusting the contractor’s application for payment and certification of the payment.

    Our goal in the construction phase is to ensure that the project that our client is expecting gets delivered.

Gravity helps our clients in many ways, from project management to professional services. We take a proactive, data-driven, and collaborative approach to architectural design and project delivery. From early planning through construction and beyond, our team is committed to identifying potential risks, aligning with stakeholders, and maintaining momentum to ensure high-performing, cost-effective outcomes.

Strategic Planning & Risk Management: We identify potential risks early using tools like risk registers, scenario planning, and SWOT analysis. This proactive approach helps us anticipate issues such as design conflicts, scheduling delays, and budget pressures before they arise.

Evidence-Based Decision Making: Decisions are grounded in data, market research, and performance metrics. We also stay aligned with zoning bylaws, building codes, and certifications to ensure smooth permitting and compliance.

Stakeholder Engagement & User-Centered Design: We facilitate workshops, interviews, and user-focused tools like mock-ups to ensure clear communication and alignment across clients, communities, and project partners.

Site Analysis & Context-Driven Design: Our schematic design process includes thorough site reviews, in-person visits, and 3D BIM modeling to uncover opportunities, assess constraints, and inform strategic design solutions.

Technical Coordination & Constructability: Using BIM, peer reviews, and interdisciplinary charrettes, we resolve design and system conflicts early. We work closely with contractors and consultants to ensure constructability and efficient phasing.

Efficient Project & Workflow Management: We manage clear milestones and real-time collaboration through Wrike, ensuring all teams stay informed, on track, and aligned from start to finish.

Integrated Tools & Continuous Learning: We use Revit, BIM 360, Lumion, SketchUp, and Adobe for modeling, documentation, and presentation. Our open-office culture and post-occupancy evaluations support continuous learning and improvement across all projects.

Results

This integrated approach—combining strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and advanced digital tools—enables us to deliver exceptional residential architecture. With cloud-based project management tools like Wrike and BIM360, we track progress and maintain clear communication—keeping projects aligned with client goals. We are also able to identify risks early, ensure regulatory compliance, and base decisions on practical constraints. Engaging owners and partners through collaborative design ensures clarity and shared vision. Site analysis and 3D modeling inform smart, context-driven solutions, while close coordination with consultants streamlines construction. The end result is that our clients can deliver homes, offices, retail and other spaces that are thoughtful, buildable, and arrive on the market on time.

“With offices in Vancouver and Calgary, Gravity’s projects are always supported by a diverse team of highly skilled, educated professionals.”
 

Our Approach

Some see design as wild and ineffable. We do not. Design is a disciplined process—one that can be planned, managed, and repeated. With the right preparation and leadership, it consistently leads to successful outcomes. We guide every project strategically from concept to completion, embracing uncertainty as an opportunity to improve the final result.

Like skilled tradespeople, we care about everything from massing to details, ensuring the design vision is accurately realized. Looking beyond financial drivers, we see every project as a chance to shape places where people live, work, and connect. We focus on how buildings fit their context as much as how programs fit the building, aiming to enhance both communities and everyday lives.

“Gravity Architecture is a full-service architectural design practice based in Vancouver and Calgary. With over 24 years experience, Gravity specializes in architecture at all scales with expertise in multi-residential, mixed-use, commercial, modular and NetZero energy ready homes.”

  • We conduct targeted feasibility studies to help developers confidently assess a site's true potential before design begins. Our process uncovers key opportunities and constraints, including zoning, municipal policy, infrastructure, access, and political considerations, so you can make informed decisions about land use, risk, and return.

  • With years of experience in residential design and construction, we are uniquely positioned to develop innovative product types that capture buyers’ attention, demonstrate strong market absorption, and can be effectively adapted across multiple regions. Our team also has extensive experience tailoring these product types to align with a wide range of pro forma requirements.

  • Our firm excels in community and urban design that balances functionality, livability, and market appeal. We create walkable, connected environments that optimize land use, enhance quality of life, and support long-term growth. From infill sites to large master-planned communities, our designs foster a strong sense of place while meeting both municipal and developer goals.

  • We are a registered architecture firm that provides a full range of architectural services from conceptual design and development permit submission and administration, through to contract documentation and building permit submission and administration.

  • Construction projects typically involve various consultants—structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, geotechnical, civil, envelope, and others—to prepare construction documentation. As prime consultants, we coordinate their input to ensure aligned documentation and minimize on-site issues.

  • We have substantial contract and construction admin experience, and are able to assist our client through the construction phase of their projects whether they are an owner, developer or contractor.

    Our services include permit submission and administration, as well as full site services including site reviews, responding to requests for information, preparing field reports and supplemental instructions, as well as providing the Code required professional schedules.

  • In 2005, we paused to look ahead at architectural technology and sought software that didn’t just track digital lines but understood building elements and their relationships—displaying them as plans, schedules, or 3D views. While a few products were emerging, Autodesk’s new Revit stood out. We adopted Revit for all our design, productivity, and visualization needs. Since then, we’ve watched the industry catch up, but few firms leverage Revit as effectively as we do at Gravity to minimize conflicts, errors, and omissions.

Our Values

When Gravity Architecture designs our buildings for our clients, we prioritize efficient construction and practical aesthetics that integrate spaces within their site. Each design decision responds to project constraints—logistical, regulatory, and technical—with care and purpose. As stewards of our clients’ investments, we take pride in creating spaces that are durable and livable, which become valuable long term assets for their users and our clients. Such buildings elevate the quality of the communities in which they are constructed.  We approach each project with these intentions, never settling for the average.

  • At Gravity, we specialize in residential, commercial, mixed-use and community-oriented projects that prioritize constructibility, cost efficiency, and long-term resilience. From the earliest design phases, we integrate cost and feasibility analysis to ensure concepts align with both budgetary constraints and long-term operational performance. This strategic approach minimizes revisions and helps prevent unforeseen costs later in the process.

    Our team blends deep design expertise with hands-on construction experience. This combination allows us to deliver buildings that are both visionary and practical. Our solutions are rooted in performance, efficiency, and clear communication with all project stakeholders. We excel in complex design conditions and challenging environments, where our proactive process helps identify and resolve issues before they impact outcomes.

  • As leaders in BIM management, we utilize Revit on every project to streamline coordination and enhance clarity. Our workflow is open and collaborative. We invite all stakeholders into our project management system so that milestones, timelines, and goals are always transparent and on track. Effective time management is core to our practice, helping us deliver accurate and efficient work from the start.

    We use advanced, industry-standard software and maintain a structured workflow that keeps client goals at the forefront of every project.

  • At Gravity we provide solutions for today's complex housing market. We have a proven track record of achieving maximum residential density without compromising quality of life. We create well-designed, high-quality spaces that support long-term livability. Our team remains agile and responsive to market shifts and socio-economic challenges, continuously adopting new approaches to address the evolving housing crisis. Our solutions are grounded in market needs and built to withstand the test of time.

  • Gravity is powered by a multidisciplinary team that includes registered architects, intern architects, architectural technologists, BIM experts, construction administrators, marketing professionals, visualization specialists, and graphic designers. Every member of our team is committed to excellence in their craft and to the success of each project.

    We actively engage with the industry and participate in continuing education to maintain the highest standards in design and project delivery. Design challenges are approached with curiosity and handled with care. Project management tasks are completed with a proactive mindset and attention to detail. No matter the scale or complexity, we treat every project with the same dedication and precision. 

  • Gravity integrates sustainable design with equity, affordability, and long-term resilience. Our LEED-accredited team aligns projects with green certifications and incentive programs to deliver high-performance, community-focused outcomes.

    The Seton Net Zero Townhomes in Calgary exemplify this approach. As the city’s first CHBA-certified Net Zero multi-unit project, the 36 homes cut energy use by up to 70 percent, eliminate natural gas, and reduce emissions. High-efficiency systems and rooftop solar lower costs, while airtight construction and triple-pane windows improve comfort, air quality, and durability.Through projects like Seton, Gravity shows how sustainability can drive environmental, economic, and social value.

About Us

Gravity Architecture Corporation is client-focused architecture firm based in Vancouver, B.C. and Calgary, Alberta helmed by Jim Vasto and Stephen Barnecut.

Gravity Architecture brings extensive experience in residential design across Western Canada, with a strong local presence in both British Columbia and Alberta. Our offices in both provinces allow us to provide responsive, hands-on service tailored to the specific needs of each project and community. Our team is deeply familiar with regional construction practices, technical standards, and the unique priorities of local stakeholders. This local presence enables seamless coordination with consultants, authorities, and construction partners, supporting the successful delivery of projects from concept through to completion.

The firm was originally formed to provide professional services to the clients of Inertia Residential Design. Since then, Gravity has grown to provide architectural solutions to developers and builders of all sizes. If you’re curious about where Gravity came from, you can read more about Gravity’s history.

“The cornerstone of our success lies in our experienced team’s ability to actively listen, collaborate openly, and create a framework which produces creative design solutions.”
OUR HISTORY

Gravity is here to help. We encourage you to meet the team, or reach out and contact us.

Team