About Us - Navorith Quinthale Architecture

Started With a Simple Question

Back in 2011, we asked ourselves - why does "sustainable" architecture have to look like it's trying too hard? We figured buildings could be green without screaming about it, y'know?

So we set up shop on Queen West with nothing but a couple laptops, way too much coffee, and this wild idea that contemporary design and environmental responsibility weren't enemies. Turns out, they're actually best friends.

Now we've got a team that genuinely cares about creating spaces that don't just look good in photos but actually work for the people using 'em every day. Plus they won't cost the earth - literally.

Our Journey

From sketch to skyline

2011

The Beginning

Founded by three architecture grads who were honestly tired of seeing cookie-cutter buildings go up everywhere. We had more ambition than clients at first, but hey - everyone's gotta start somewhere.

01

2014

First Major Project

Landed our first commercial build - a mixed-use space in Liberty Village. Pulled a lot of all-nighters, learned what we were actually made of. Got recognition from the Toronto Architecture Foundation too, which was pretty surreal.

02

2017

Going Green Officially

Became certified LEED professionals and really doubled down on sustainable design. It wasn't just a side thing anymore - it became who we are. Also moved to our current studio 'cause we'd outgrown the old space.

03

2023

Today & Tomorrow

Working on projects across Ontario, mentoring young architects, and still figuring out how to make every building better than the last. We've completed over 80 projects and honestly? Still feels like we're just getting started.

04

Meet The Folks Behind The Drafts

We're a mixed bunch, and that's kinda the point

Elena Navorith

Principal Architect & Founder

Started this whole thing after getting frustrated with wasteful building practices. Got a Master's from Waterloo and won't shut up about passive solar design - but in a good way. She's the one who makes sure we're always pushing boundaries.

Marcus Quinthale

Principal Architect & Co-Founder

The technical wizard who can make building codes actually make sense. Did his time at big firms before realizing small studios have way more soul. Specializes in heritage restoration and somehow makes old meet new without anyone getting hurt.

Priya Sandhu

Lead Designer

Joined us in 2015 and basically revolutionized how we think about interior flow. Has this uncanny ability to know exactly what a space needs before the client even says it. Also makes the best chai in the office, not gonna lie.

David Chen

Urban Planning Lead

Thinks about buildings in terms of neighborhoods, not just lots. Came from city planning and brought that big-picture perspective we didn't even know we needed. Bike commutes year-round and practices what he preaches about sustainable transport.

Sophie Laurent

Project Manager

The one who keeps us all organized and on schedule - which is honestly like herding cats sometimes. Background in construction management means she knows when contractors are feeding us lines. Basically runs this place while making it look easy.

James Okafor

Sustainability Consultant

Our environmental conscience - though he'd hate that description. Comes at green building from an engineering angle, which means he backs everything up with actual data. Makes sure our sustainable designs aren't just greenwashing.

What Actually Drives Us

Look, we're not gonna pretend we're saving the world one building at a time. But we do think architecture matters - it shapes how people live, work, and interact with their environment every single day.

We're into making spaces that feel right, that don't waste resources just 'cause nobody's paying attention, and that'll still be relevant when your kids are showing their kids around.

Contemporary design, sustainable practices, and actually listening to what people need - that's our thing. No ego, no unnecessary complexity, just honest architecture that works.

Wanna Work Together?

We're always up for interesting projects and good conversations. Let's see if we're a good fit for whatever you've got brewing.

Get In Touch