Kariouk Associates

About Kariouk Associates

Established in 2001 when Principal Architect, Paul Kariouk moved from New York City to Ottawa, Kariouk Architects has always operated with the belief that no work of real architecture comes from a formula. Instead, it must be grounded in fluid, rigorous, incremental explorations informed by in-depth personal dialogue with clients. Put simply, we delve before we design. As with most architecture projects, it is not uncommon to be faced with constraints or limitations, but we prefer not to see these as impediments. Whether they be budgetary, pragmatic, legal or zoning, these potential challenges are catalysts for design that is as sensible as it is unique. “You know you have reached perfection of design not when you have nothing more to add but when you have nothing more to take away.” – French writer, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry While many architecture firms pride themselves on having a trademark style that distinguishes them from their competition, Kariouk proudly stands behind the fact that we do not have any one look that identifies us as distinctly Kariouk. If anything, our trademark is that no two of our projects look the same. Because we tackle each creative undertaking with a new lens, our final results are always informed by an entirely different set of criteria and inspiration. It is deeply important to us that we fully understand the lives and needs of the people we work with. Whether it is a commercial or residential project – a new build or major renovation – it is an immersive and personalized approach that leads us to our best work – work that is intelligent, beautiful, meaningful and enduring.