House near Almonte, Ontario
Designed and built by Bob Jurmain
Designed and built by Bob Jurmain
Each person has a unique set of living patterns and a building language
entirely his own. It exists within us and it is enhanced by our experiences.
Our patterns are less homogeneous today but more diversely rich.
If we are to build a house that reflects our true nature we have to find out
just what will work specifically for us. Most architects and designers will provide you with their interpretation of your basic list of what you would like in your house. To develop meaningful architecture, something that will endure for you and your family, the designer must step back, listen and develop new personalized design patterns. This is an easy and quick process. This process was developed by myself and former partners relying somewhat on the ideas of Christopher Alexander’s book: "A Pattern Language". Alexander and his associates used predetermined patterns. We develop new ones each time. It is much more efficient than the trial and error method generally employed by designers or the even more hazardous method of turning the Clients towards the architect's vision.
With this participatory method people get very attached to their homes because, in essence, it is their design.
Myself and associates do new homes, renovations and additions from start to finish as well as commercial work. We will do part of the project or all of it from design to completion, working drawings, municipal applications and providing construction supervision. I also will build from plans by other designers.
Green House, Ottawa
This house was a rebuild after the original burned down.
Design by Richard White. Working Drawings and
construction by Bob Jurmain
This house was a rebuild after the original burned down.
Design by Richard White. Working Drawings and
construction by Bob Jurmain
Gro House, Kelowna
Designed and built by Bob Jurmain
Designed and built by Bob Jurmain
These clients had a two person office overlooking the Kitchen. "If we don't work together we won't see each other".


