HI, I'M DAVID
I am self-employed as an independent building consultant grounded in a simple [motive concept idea]: the best buildings support and strengthen the communities around them.
Based in Guelph, I recently retired from an architectural practice that spanned five decades. Throughout my career, I led the design of many significant, community-focused buildings in Guelph, including Grace Gardens, Wellington Hospice, YMCA, the Salvation Army, Women in Crisis, the Humane Society, Guelph Christian School, group homes, childcare centres and elementary schools.
These projects, along with my work across the province designing healthy homes, retirement residences and health care facilities, places of worship and other shared spaces, reflect a long-standing commitment to create affordable places that foster connection, care, and belonging.
I was also a founding member, architect and developer of Guelph’s second urban cohousing community, Watershed Cohousing where I continue to live and work. This experience continues to shape my approach, deepening my commitment to collaborative design, environmentally friendly, sustainable and community-driven housing models such as small neighbourhood care homes and Abbeyfield Houses.
Today, I bring this perspective to my community engagement as a community advocate addressing climate change Guelph Seniors for Climate Action Now, founder of Green Drinks Guelph consultant with Seniors for Social Action Ontario. I specialize in cohousing, not-for-profit, and communal living projects, offering a collaborative approach that prioritizes both strong design and meaningful community impact.
I believe that good buildings come from thoughtful collaboration, clear communication, and a strong sense of purpose. My role is to simplify complexity, offer honest advice, and help you make confident decisions so your project not only succeeds, but contributes meaningfully to the community and the surrounding community.
At the heart of my work is a focus on designing and building innovative places in an environment that supports the people who use them.