About Us - Emberly & Valquinth Architectural Studio

How We Got Here

Look, we're not gonna feed you the usual "passion for excellence" spiel. Truth is, Sarah Emberly and Marcus Valquinth met during a heated debate at a heritage preservation conference back in 2014. She thought he was too rigid about historical accuracy, he thought she was too quick to modernize everything. Turns out, they were both kinda right.

Fast forward through countless coffees and late-night design sessions, and here we are - running a studio that actually bridges that gap between old and new. We've learned that the best buildings aren't just pretty facades or trendy sustainable features. They're spaces that tell stories while preparing for the future.

Based outta Vancouver since 2015, we've assembled a team that genuinely cares about what they're designing. No cookie-cutter solutions here - every project gets the attention it deserves, whether it's a heritage restoration that needs careful handling or a new build that's gotta meet aggressive sustainability targets.

Meet the Founders

Sarah Emberly

Co-Founder & Principal Architect

Graduated from UBC's School of Architecture in 2009, spent five years with a big-name firm before realizing corporate architecture wasn't her thing. Sarah's the one who pushes our sustainable design initiatives - she's practically obsessed with finding materials that don't trash the planet.

When she's not sketching designs, you'll find her hiking the North Shore trails or advocating for better building codes at city council meetings. Yeah, she's that person.

Marcus Valquinth

Co-Founder & Heritage Specialist

Marcus did his training in Edinburgh before moving to Canada in 2010. He's got this weird ability to look at a century-old building and just... understand what it needs. His background in historical preservation means he knows exactly which walls you can't touch and where you can sneak in modern systems.

Outside the office, he restores vintage furniture and makes a mean espresso. His collection of architectural history books is honestly getting out of hand.

Our Journey So Far

2015

The Beginning

Opened our doors with just three people and a whole lotta ambition. First project was a small heritage home restoration in Kitsilano - we definitely underbid that one, but learned tons.

2017

Recognition

Snagged our first award from the Heritage Vancouver Society for the Cordova Street restoration project. That one put us on the map and got us some actual credibility in the industry.

2019

Growing Pains

Moved to our current office on West Georgia and expanded the team to twelve people. Started taking on commercial projects alongside our residential and heritage work. It was chaotic but exciting.

2021

Sustainability Push

Committed to making all our new builds net-zero ready. Yeah, it's harder and sometimes more expensive, but it's the right call. Also launched our sustainability consulting service.

2024

Today

We're now a team of eighteen, juggling multiple projects across BC. Still based in Vancouver, still doing what we love - just with better coffee and more experience under our belts.

What We Actually Believe In

Respect the Planet

Buildings last decades, sometimes centuries. We're not gonna design something today that becomes tomorrow's environmental disaster. Sustainable isn't optional anymore.

Honor History

Old buildings have stories embedded in their bones. When we restore heritage structures, we're not just preserving bricks - we're keeping memories and craftsmanship alive.

People First

At the end of the day, buildings are for people. If a space doesn't work for the folks who'll actually use it, we haven't done our job right - doesn't matter how pretty it looks.

Some Recognition We've Received

Heritage Award

Heritage Vancouver Society

2017, 2020, 2023

Green Design Excellence

BC Sustainable Building Assoc.

2021

Emerging Firm Award

Architectural Institute of BC

2018

Innovation in Restoration

Canadian Heritage Foundation

2022

Wanna Work With Us?

We're always looking for talented folks who get what we're trying to do here. If you're passionate about sustainable design, respect historical architecture, and can handle our slightly chaotic energy - get in touch.

For project inquiries, hit up our contact page. We love talking about new challenges, whether it's a tricky heritage restoration or a ground-up sustainable build. Fair warning though - we'll ask a lot of questions. It's how we work.

Get In Touch