Top 5 Largest Architectural Companies in Canada

Canada’s architectural landscape is a unique blend of innovation, sustainability, and cultural expression. These top architectural companies have helped build our famous skylines and contributed to shaping our cities, and they’re only growing. 

From 2019 to 2023, there has been a 23% increase in operating revenue between all architects in Canada. Understanding their contributions can offer valuable insights for contractors, especially in securing insurance solutions for large-scale projects. In this article, we spotlight the top five architectural firms in Canada, showcasing their unique contributions and impact on the industry.

1. B+H Architects 

• Established: 1953
• Head Office: Toronto
• Number of Architects: 150

B+H Architects is one of the most impressive firms in Canada. With over 70 years of experience in architecture practice, they have become instrumental in designing and master planning iconic buildings, such as: 

• Metro Toronto Convention Centre – South Building, Ontario
• Ams Student Nest, University of BC, British Columbia 
• Toronto SickKids Research & Learning Tower, Ontario 
• Abilities Centre, Ontario 

Their core philosophy is not only to create functional and meaningful designs but manage projects that bring purpose to the community. As one of the top architectural firms in Canada, this has led to them winning numerous awards and accolades for their sustainable construction and design excellence.  

2. Stantec 

• Established: 1954
• Head Office: Edmonton
• Number of Architects: 551

Stantec started as a one-person architect firm in Canada and has evolved into an architectural company with over 450 locations across six continents and employing over 30,000 employees. 

Stantec believes that the purpose of their design work is to transform lives. They are known for building community-driven solutions and landscape architecture that balance beauty and function. Some of their featured projects are: 

• Niagara Falls Exchange, Ontario 
• The ONE, Ontario
• Stantec Tower, Alberta 

Their contribution to sustainable development and urban planning has made them one of Canada’s leading architectural companies, which has further been validated by the number of awards and recognitions they have received over the decades. Stantec is a true icon in Canada’s architectural industry and has left a big mark globally.

Source: Shutterstock

3. Lemay 

• Established: 1957
• Head Office: Montreal
• Number of Architects: 365

Lemay has a deliberate guiding principle to “design for people,” which is obvious in their urban, exterior, and interior design. Its architects take their commitment to sustainable architecture and interior design to the next level. They are pioneers in integrating environmental strategies into their architectural design while drawing inspiration from their surroundings. They have created some of the most beautiful spaces, such as: 

• Revitalization of Place Ville Marie, Montreal
• Montreal’s Maison de la Poste

Lemay is one of the architecture firms in Canada that can proudly boast that all six of their offices are carbon-neutral. They truly live their own mission in their day to day. In addition to their impressive ranking as one of the top five architectural firms in Canada, they have also moved up six places in the Building Design Online’s 2024 survey that lists the top  architectural firms worldwide. 

4. Diamond Schmitt Architects 

• Established: 1975
• Head Office: Toronto
• Number of Architects: 100

Diamond Schmitt is quickly becoming one of the most esteemed architectural companies in Canada with a reputation for impressive technical expertise and tight project management. They support diverse sectors with education, healthcare, cultural, and residential projects. Their overall goal and philosophy is that architecture should serve the greater good. This can be seen in the iconic and design-savvy projects that they have worked on: 

• Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, Toronto
• Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Vancouver
• Seneca College Centre for Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship (CITE), Toronto
• Lassonde School of Engineering at York University, Toronto

Their many cultural projects prove they’re one of the architectural firms in Canada that have made an impact on the country’s overall urban design. They are dedicated to a strong artistic expression while focusing on sustainable construction.  

KPMB Architects 

• Established: 1987
• Head Office: Toronto 
• Number of Architects: 130

KPMB is one of the architectural companies that is inspiring and connecting communities with their work. They believe that the human experience is enhanced by the power of architecture. They have several award-winning projects, with some of their most notable buildings being: 

• The Gardiner Museum, Toronto 
• The Remai Modern, Saskatoon 
• The Balsillie School of International Affairs, Waterloo
• The Global Centre for Pluralism, Ottawa

One of KPMB’s cornerstones is sustainability, which you can see in their work on Manitoba Hydro Place in Winnipeg. The building uses approximately 70% less energy than other office buildings of a comparable size. KPMB has a set of architects in Canada who are set to continue that reputation with transformative designs. 

Source: Shutterstock

Stay Ahead of the Curve with Proactive Insurance Coverage 

Understanding the top architectural firms in Canada is critical for contractors, especially when dealing with insurance for large-scale projects. These architectural companies’ track records in innovation and sustainability can influence the risks associated with architectural ventures. 

Knowing this not only aids in risk assessment but also enhances credibility when seeking comprehensive insurance coverage. As the architectural landscape evolves, staying informed about these leading firms and their projects becomes increasingly vital for successful project execution and management.

Partner with a trusted insurance brokerage to ensure you’re equipped with expert guidance and personalized support for your business’ protection. Contractors Insurance is here to ensure that you can confidently navigate challenges and seize opportunities with confidence.  

Contact us today and let your insurance coverage be as strong and sustainable as the work that you create.