Brimval Quinthorix Studio

Who We Are

Crafting Tomorrow's Architectural Legacy Today

How We Got Started

Back in 2009, two architects walked out of a stuffy corporate firm with nothing but sketches and a shared vision. That's us - or rather, that was us. We'd spent years watching design get watered down by committees and budget cuts that prioritized profit over people. It got old fast.

Started with a tiny office above a coffee shop on King West. Our first project? A residential renovation that the client's previous architect abandoned mid-way. We finished it, stayed under budget, and word got around. Turns out people appreciate when you actually listen to what they want instead of forcing some rigid design doctrine on them.

We've grown since then - moved to Bay Street, expanded the team, tackled bigger projects. But here's what hasn't changed: we still sketch ideas on napkins during client meetings, still argue passionately about window placements, and still believe a building should fit the people inside it, not the other way around.

Today we're handling everything from heritage restorations to cutting-edge commercial spaces. The variety keeps us sharp, honestly. Each project teaches us something new.

Our Studio Space

How We Actually Work

Listen First, Draw Later

We don't show up with pre-baked solutions. Every space has its own story - the people using it, the neighborhood it's in, what came before. We spend time understanding all that before putting pencil to paper. Sometimes the best design comes from what a client mentions offhand about their daily routine.

Function Isn't Negotiable

A gorgeous building that doesn't work is just an expensive sculpture. We obsess over flow, lighting, acoustics - all the stuff people experience but don't always notice. Beauty matters, sure, but it's gotta be functional beauty. Otherwise, what's the point?

Sustainability Without the Sermon

Yeah, we build sustainably. But not because it's trendy - because it makes economic sense and our kids have to live on this planet too. Passive heating, proper insulation, smart material choices. It's not rocket science, it's just good design that'll save you money for decades.

No Surprises Policy

Construction's unpredictable enough without us adding to it. We keep clients in the loop constantly - budgets, timelines, design changes. If something's gonna cost extra or take longer, you'll know immediately. Trust gets built through transparency, not through hiding problems until they explode.

The People Behind the Blueprints

We're a mix of perfectionists, dreamers, and detail-obsessed problem solvers

Thomas Brimval
Thomas Brimval

Co-Founder & Principal Architect

Spent 15 years in the field before starting the firm. Has strong opinions about parking lot design and won't apologize for them. Still does site visits in the rain because he trusts his eyes more than reports.

Marina Quinthorix
Marina Quinthorix

Co-Founder & Design Director

The one who keeps us from going over budget and over deadline. Trained in Copenhagen, brings that Scandinavian sensibility minus the minimalism dogma. Believes every project should have at least one surprising element.

David Koshiro
David Koshiro

Senior Project Manager

Former contractor who switched sides. Knows every trick builders use and every excuse they'll try. Clients love him because he actually returns calls. Has saved more projects from disaster than anyone wants to admit.

Rachel Nordstrom
Rachel Nordstrom

Interior Design Lead

Obsessed with how light moves through spaces at different times of day. Will fight you on paint colors but she's usually right. Somehow makes tiny spaces feel huge and huge spaces feel intimate. It's witchcraft, basically.

James Okoye
James Okoye

Sustainability Specialist

Our environmental conscience who actually understands building science. Runs energy models that predict heating costs years out. Constantly researching new materials. Makes green building accessible instead of preachy.

Sophie Lamarche
Sophie Lamarche

Associate Architect

Heritage restoration expert who treats old buildings like living things. Montreal-trained, brings that European preservation mindset. Can spot original molding under six layers of paint. Makes history feel relevant for modern use.

Team Collaboration

Why People Keep Coming Back

Look, we're not perfect. Projects hit snags, budgets get tight, weather delays happen. But what sets us apart is we don't ghost clients when things get complicated. We work through problems together instead of pointing fingers.

About 70% of our work comes from referrals or repeat clients. That's not luck - it's because we treat people's investments with respect and deliver buildings that actually improve their lives. We've had clients come back five, ten years later for new projects. That's the kind of validation that matters more than any award.

We're based in Toronto but the principles we work by apply anywhere. Good design is good design. Honest communication is honest communication. If you're looking for a firm that'll level with you and create something meaningful, let's talk.

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