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BUILDING DESIGN SERVICES

BUILDING DESIGN SERVICES

Planning a new home, renovation, or addition can quickly become complex. GNAR simplifies the process through clear, coordinated building design that takes your project from concept through to permitting and construction.

Using advanced 3D BIM modeling and deep knowledge of local permitting requirements, we design homes that are fully resolved before construction begins, reducing delays, miscommunication, and unexpected costs.

The result is a smoother path to approval, a more efficient build, and a home that performs as well as it looks.

LET'S TALK

Our Building Design Process

client roadmap

Phase 1 - Interior Design

PHASE 1

DISCOVERY

Following your inquiry, we schedule a discovery consultation, either on-site or virtually, to explore your project goals, timeline, and design aspirations.  After the meeting, we provide a tailored proposal outlining the project scope, fees, and next steps.

Phase 2 – Documentation & Permitting

PHASE 2

DOCUMENTATION & PERMITTING

We conduct a detailed site visit to capture accurate measurements, photographs, and all relevant information needed to produce existing condition drawings.

One of our Sustainable Home Designer visits your property to collect precise measurements for your BIMx 3D model. This model forms the foundation of your existing home’s digital replica and later, your future design. You’ll also receive the BIMx app so you can virtually walk through both your current space and your future design.

A Lead Building Designer is then assigned, and all project information is handed off for the next phase.

Phase 3 – Concept Development

PHASE 3

CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT

Now the fun begins! This is your chance to share ideas, inspirations, and must-haves. We translate everything into a Design Brief, a roadmap that captures your vision before detailed design begins. After the meeting, we send you the Design Brief for review and confirmation.

Using your BIMx model, we begin shaping your new space or renovation.  This phase focuses on the big-picture vision, with regular check-ins to ensure alignment. Once you’re happy with the concept, you’ll sign off to proceed.
(Don’t forget to explore your future space using the BIMx app!)

Conceptual design typically represents about 50% of the work needed for a building permit, though this varies by project.

Our Interior Design team partners with the Lead Building Designer to ensure every space is functional, intuitive, and aligned with your overall vision. Together, they refine room placement, circulation flow, and furniture layouts so each area feels intentional and well-resolved. This early coordination also establishes precise wall and window locations, providing the structural team with clear, accurate information from the start and helping prevent unnecessary revisions later in the process.

*Concept Design Sign-off

Phase 4 – Detailed Design & Documentation

PHASE 4

DETAILED DESIGN & PERMIT SUBMISSION

Your concept is refined into detailed drawings ready for technical coordination. We work closely with structural and geotechnical engineers, who will provide quotes and feedback as needed. For early build-cost insight, we recommend involving a General Contractor during this phase to help align your design with your construction budget.

Engineering timelines vary depending on the consultant.

Our Interior Design team creates a complete set of drawings to guide your project, including:

– Black-and-white 3D layouts and color renders with virtual walkthrough
– Concept look book and material selections (fixtures, finishes, tiles, countertops, paint, carpet, etc.)
– Specification sheets for appliances, lighting, plumbing, millwork, bathroom accessories, tile, flooring, millwork, countertops and more
– Technical drawings: floor finishes, electrical, reflective ceiling plans, interior elevations, sections, and details
– Revisions and lead designer review for coordination and accuracy

Once drawings are finalized, we submit the Building Permit Application to the municipality on your behalf and handle any required revisions.

*Building Permit Sign-off

Phase 5 – Design Execution Oversight

PHASE 5

TECHNICAL DESIGN

(upon request)

Our base service focuses on the overall design and coordination of your project. If your contractor requires more detailed technical drawings such as wall assemblies, construction details, or construction specifications for pricing and execution, these can be provided as an optional Technical Design service.

Phase 6 – Decor, Furniture & Styling

PHASE 6

DECOR, FURNITURE & STYLING

(upon request)

We source, purchase, schedule, and coordinate delivery of all furnishings, fixtures, and décor, tracking each item through to installation.

Our team oversees placement, installation, and final styling on-site, ensuring every detail aligns with your design vision.

post-permit

PHASE 7

POST PERMIT

(upon request)

After your permit is issued, we remain available to coordinate with contractors, conduct site visits, and assist with revisions as the project evolves. This ensures everything is executed smoothly and remains true to your approved design.

Our in-house Energy Advisor can support comfort and energy efficiency goals.  For new builds in Whistler, they can provide the required energy performance assessment (Step Code 4) for municipal compliance.

What's Your Project?

Sustainable Home Design

Design a new home that performs as well as it looks. We integrate building design, interiors, and energy performance from the start, creating a home that is efficient, comfortable, and built for the long term.

Renovations

Reimagine your existing home with a design that improves how it functions, feels, and performs. We ensure your renovation is fully coordinated, permit ready, and aligned with your long term goals.

Interior Design

Transform your space with interior design that is considered from the beginning, not added at the end. Our integrated approach ensures your interiors feel connected to the home as a whole.

Additions

Expand your home with new space that feels seamless, not separate. We design additions that integrate with your existing structure while improving flow, function, and long term value.

Deep Energy Retrofits

Upgrade your home to significantly improve energy performance, comfort, and durability. We identify the right opportunities and design upgrades that make a meaningful long term impact.

Construction Permit Specialists

Navigate complex permitting with confidence. We manage the process, coordinate requirements, and help resolve challenging situations so your project can move forward.

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Sustainable Home Design

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Sustainable Home Design

Throughout the entire project life-cycle; conceptualization, design development, permitting, and construction (including material and resource selection as well as progress monitoring) GNAR Inc. will deliver fantastic sustainable building designs. We are focused on working closely with you, the client, to bring your vision to life.  Working to incorporate elements of Passive House design, meeting net-zero building standards, and designing energy-positive buildings are all ways we will work with you to create a sustainable home design.

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Renovations

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Renovations

Embarking on a renovation can be an opportunity to improve energy efficiency and functionality within a space, and create space you have been dreaming of.  It can also provide you with the opportunity to increase the value of your home.  Through the use of our 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, we will bring your vision to life and ensure that everything needed to obtain building permits is provided and construction goes smoothly.

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Interior Design

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Interior Design

Interior design at GNAR is not treated as a separate phase, it is integrated into the design of the home from the beginning.

Whether part of a new build, renovation, or addition, we design interiors that are fully connected to the structure, layout, and function of the home. This results in spaces that feel cohesive, considered, and aligned with how you actually live.

From spatial planning and material selection through to finishes and furnishings, our process ensures your home not only looks refined but works seamlessly day to day.

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Additions

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Additions

Increasing the square footage of your building can provide endless opportunities (bedrooms, bathrooms, and rental suites are just a few suggestions).  No matter the timeline or budget the GNAR Inc. design team will work with you to seamlessly integrate the new space with the existing space.  A well planned and executed addition will increase the value of your home today and tomorrow.   

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Deep Energy Retrofits

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Deep Energy Retrofits

When preparing to embark on a renovation or addition to a space often priority is given to design layout. A deep energy retrofit can also provide the opportunity to improve a home’s air quality, thermal comfort, and durability.  A whole-building analysis will identify opportunities for investment/upgrades (including but not limited to adding insulation, replacing windows glazing, or replacing the roof) to improve a home’s overall energy performance.

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Construction Permit Specialists

Permit Icon
Construction Permit
Specialists​

Permitting can be one of the most complex and uncertain parts of a project. We help navigate that process with clarity and confidence.

With deep knowledge of local regulations and approval pathways, we prepare complete, coordinated drawing packages and manage communication with municipalities to keep your project moving forward.

Whether you are starting fresh, dealing with delays, or resolving unpermitted work, we provide a clear path through the process so you can move ahead with confidence.

Building Design FAQ's

Clear answers to common questions about design, permitting, and the process.

Most renovations require a permit, especially if they involve structural changes, plumbing, electrical, or changes to layout. We help determine what is required and prepare the necessary drawings to support the application.

Yes, we specialize in navigating permitting processes. We prepare coordinated drawing packages, manage submissions, and work with municipalities to help move your project through approvals.

A typical building design package includes site analysis, floor plans, elevations, sections, and detailed drawings required for permitting and construction. We coordinate with consultants as needed to ensure everything is aligned.

For many residential projects, a building designer is fully qualified to design and prepare permit drawings. We handle custom homes, renovations, and additions, and can advise if additional professionals are required for your project.

Yes, we regularly work with clients to resolve unpermitted work and close open permits. This often involves creating as-built drawings, reviewing compliance, and preparing submissions to bring the project into alignment with regulations.

By developing a fully coordinated design using 3D BIM modeling, we identify potential issues early and ensure all drawings are aligned before construction begins. This reduces changes on site and helps keep the project on track.

Yes, we collaborate closely with builders, engineers, and other consultants throughout the project to ensure clear communication and a coordinated outcome.

Word On The Street

The team at GNAR was able to deliver in 4 months what we were unable to achieve in 2.5 years with the previous designer and RMOW.

Paul S
Whistler

We worked with GNAR to design our complex property; they are professional, knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with. We made it through the 3 year process without a moment of regret!

Keltie
Wedge Mountain Lodge & Spa

We loved working with your Interior Design team. We are so happy with all the selected elements/finishings and the end result is just gorgeous.

Debbie & Chuck
Whistler

I had an excellent experience working with Jessica on my home redesign. She listened to my ideas and transformed my space with her exceptional creativity and eye for detail. Jessica guided me through every step, respecting my budget while providing valuable insights. Her professionalism and responsiveness made collaboration seamless, resulting in a beautiful, functional space that perfectly reflects my personality. I highly recommend Jessica to anyone looking to elevate their home!

Jessica B
Squamish

GNAR recently helped us with our resubmittal process, we worked with Luke on this package, he was very thorough and professional. At the time we were having issues with the building department, Luke was able to get it modelled, put together the BP package resubmittal and have it submitted in under 2 weeks, we were successful in the resubmittal and were able to close out the permit. Looking forward to working with GNAR on the next project.

Nathan
CVC Custom Homes

We worked with Jessica on the interior design and furnishing of our new home, following several positive experiences on past projects. We were thrilled to have her lead the design of our new build. Her work is outstanding. From early collaboration with the architect and builder, she helped create a home with a well-balanced design, a highly functional layout, and timeless, beautiful finishes. We look forward to working with Jessica and the GNAR team again and recommend her without hesitation for any interior design project.

Ardie V
Whistler

Jessica and her team at GNAR were absolutely incredible to work with. Skilled, knowledgeable and friendly while navigating the many revisions I requested and challenges we encountered. True professionals that I would recommend to anyone.

Paul D
Squamish
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