About

Metis Design|Build was established in 2000, founded on the diverse interests and long-standing commitment to collaboration of its founding principal, Erick Villagomez (B. Arch. Sci., M.Arch). This unique practice began providing both design and construction services to clients who desired creating environmentally sensitive homes on tight budgets. Unlike typical design firms, the construction services included all aspects of the building process from carpentry to finishing and involved forging several partnerships with high-quality trades who could work collaboratively towards a common goals. More importantly, however, this period saw the integration of pragmatic construction knowledge and innovative design concepts.

During this period, Erick was also developing a strong academic foundation as an instructor at the University of British Columbia in the School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture teaching courses on settlement patterns - the intersection between urban design and architecture - as well as housing types. This was further supplemented by a robust knowledge of information design.

Over time, Metis Design|Build became the nucleus of the varied knowledge base attained through these various activities and led to the surprising diversity of projects that currently characterize the practice These include:

  • Small-scale residential development and construction
  • Residential guideline creation
  • Land Use rezoning and development
  • Adaptive reuse and restoration of existing small buildings
  • Small-scale commercial building design and construction
  • Urban design and Transportation land-use planning
  • Furniture design and construction
  • Graphic and information design

Despite their seeming differences, all projects are bound by the ties of colloboration that allow the successful resolution of complex issues.

As discussed, the work of the firm is broad based and has often generated acclaim for the realization of unique and accomplished design solutions. Included within a remarkable portfolio are projects embodying urban planning, residential development, and contextual design that acknowledges its surroundings and, within this realm, seeks to enhance both community and environment.

Consequently, the growing reputation of excellence in all projects done by this small practice has placed an increasing pressure to expand. However, as a means of continuing to serve those with limited means as well as maintaining a high standard of one-on-one service and flexibility, Erick has chosen to maintain Metis Design|Build as a small practice - calling upon his many collaborators if other services beyond his capacity are required.

Our client list and collaborators for work include, but are not limited to:

  • City of Richmond
  • IBI Group
  • University of British Columbia - Design Center for Sustainability
  • British Columbia Institute of Technology - Green Roof Research Facility
  • Canadian Center for Policy Alternatives
  • Vancouver City Planning Commission
  • City of Vancouver
  • Merrick Architecture Ltd.
  • Ramsay Worden Architects Ltd.
  • Wisa Healthy Homes
  • Westcoast Child Development Group

The Practice has an established reputation for effective communication, the ability to listen, and the capability to find consensus amongst a diversity of opinion. We strive to establish a balance between the individual issues, the public concerns and the municipal policies that impact the economic realities in today’s building environment.

We believe that the best planning and design solutions evolve from a program of team-oriented interactions that foster the creative spirit and encourage the open contributions of those most affected. We welcome both discussion and review that builds on collective experience, and we seek solutions that embrace our clients’ aspirations in the required consideration of broader issues.

Erick Villagomez, B.Arch Sc., M.Arch
Environmental Designer, Principal