In addition to the many advancements in new technologies and materials which have had a significant impact on the delivery of architectural design and services, Calgary’s BRZ Partnership Architecture is unique.
The dynamic small Calgary architecture practice continues to earn its respected reputation by bringing a more personalized service to each project, whether large or small. “Being a small firm allows us to take on very a small renovation as well as a very large new build.”
The BRZ Partnership Architecture difference is a unique hands-on casual approach to problem solving, involving not only the skills and expertise of the entire BRZ team of architects, technologists and interior designers, but also the client team, from the start of designs to completion. “In our firm, the team that is involved in the conceptual design is the same team that shows up at the final construction review.”
“Projects have become increasingly complex and this approach helps to simplify the process and smoothen the road during the construction phase,” says the respected Hank Brzezinski, principal and architect with BRZ Partnership Architecture.
Whether an in-depth feasibility study, renovations or the design of a new $40 million facility, he emphasizes that collaboration with clients is absolutely the most important aspect of any project. Collaboration between the client, the design team and the construction team is perhaps more important than all the state-of-the-art tools we use like AutoCAD and Revit, 3D design visualizations and Microsoft Project scheduling software.
“Making sure the client is thoroughly invested in the project is a key to ensuring that everything goes smoothly and efficiently. After all, our reputation is built on and depends on being responsive to the specific needs of our clients, and we work closely with our clients to deliver their project on-time and on-budget,” he adds.
While good collaboration is crucial to the success of every project, Brzezinski explains that technology has enhanced the decision-making process with the ability to pull up drawings on a screen and discuss details with clients, contractors, product reps and suppliers.
With tremendous and invaluable Alberta experience, Brzezinski and the BRZ team are focused not only on constantly changing technologies and architectural design trends, but also changing client project goals and expectations. Aspects like sustainability, durability, energy efficiency and lowering the carbon footprint. All key aspects of the BRZ design approach.
Brzezinski notes interesting and exciting trends in architecture and design. “There is much demand for re-purposing spaces and creating flexible spaces that foster teamwork and creating more inclusive spaces.” BRZ has completed several projects for the Calgary Public Library, the University of Calgary and the University of Lethbridge, creating meeting and collaboration rooms and creating gender neutral facilities. Inclusion is also an important design consideration for commercial spaces, restaurants and retail spaces.
The respected BRZ success and expertise includes several milestones, like the recently completed Marigold Library System / Western Irrigation District Joint Facility in Strathmore, the multi-million dollar renovation and addition of the Panorama Hills Community Centre of the Northstar Residents Association, the Banff Legacy Inn multi-unit residential complex in Harvie Heights, many projects for the Calgary Public Library, the University of Calgary and the University of Lethbridge, and others including an exterior retrofit of the Genesis Community Centre and a 131-unit townhouse complex in Edmonton.
Hank Brzezinski underscores that, from an architecture and design perspective, building standards and priorities have become tremendously complex and challenging. Clients now expect more leadership than ever from architects and their design team.
Expertise, leadership and collaboration are important aspects of the BRZ Partnership Architecture competitive edge.
“We’re smaller and focus on more personalized service,” he points out. “We prioritize our client’s goals and make sure the client is always dealing with the same person, from start to finish.”
“We are proud of our proactive and collaborative service approach.”
