WHAT IS AwAwDe

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​AwAwDe (short for Awesome Awesome Designs) is a visionary architecture firm based in Toronto, founded in 2015 with a bold mission to redefine the way architecture serves communities. In an industry where design often caters to the elite, AwAwDe was born out of a desire to bridge the gap between high-end architectural trends and the everyday needs of the general public.

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At AwAwDe, we challenge the status quo by prioritizing the voices and aspirations of the people who inhabit the spaces we create. We believe that architecture should be deeply rooted in the cultural and social fabric of its surroundings, reflecting the collective wisdom of communities rather than the vision of a single individual. Our approach is collaborative, inclusive, and grounded in the belief that truly great buildings are the result of shared ideas and values.

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Our philosophy is simple: everyone deserves access to exceptional designs. Whether we're crafting intimate residential spaces or large-scale public projects, our goal is to create environments that are not only functional and beautiful but also resonate with the people who use them. At AwAwDe, we are committed to making architecture that is as accessible as it is awe-inspiring—because awesome designs are for everyone.​

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WHAT WE DO​

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AwAwDe is a Toronto-based architecture firm, proudly licensed by the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA). We offer a comprehensive range of services, including:​

• Architectural Design - Feasibility Study - Conceptual Design

• Interior Design - Home Renovation - Custom Build Homes

• Building Permits - Construction Drawings - Contract Administration​

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​​ At AwAwDe, we prioritize creativity, practicality, and efficiency, ensuring that our designs meet the needs of our clients while enhancing the communities we serve.

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WHO WE ARE

 

Fan Zhang | OAA, M.Arch, B.Eng

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Prior to founding AwAwDe, Fan had worked in various internationally known architecture offices such as HWKN (New York), BIG (Copenhagen), MAD (Beijing), and B+H Architects (Toronto). She was involved in developing and realizing numerous award winning projects across the globe. Her portfolio ranges from single-family housing, to boutique restaurants, opera houses, museums, office towers, and large institutional complexes.

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In addition to her architectural practice, Fan is deeply committed to education and actively engages in academia. She currently serves as a sessional lecturer at Toronto Metropolitan University, where she teaches studio and theory courses. Additionally, she instructs the OAA Admission's Course at the University of Toronto/OAA, guiding the next generation of architects.

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As both a practicing architect and a researcher, Fan has a particular interest in Vernacular Architecture, exploring how local building traditions can inform and enrich modern design practices. Her unique blend of global experience, academic involvement, and research interests positions her at the forefront of innovative and culturally responsive architectural design.

 

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COLLABORATORS

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Judy Zeng | P.Eng

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Judy received her B.A.S. in Engineering Science and a M.Eng. in Structural Engineering from the University of Toronto. She is a registered Professional Engineer in Ontario and California. Judy’s structural expertise extends to most building materials including concrete, steel, wood, and masonry. Having worked as the Plan Check Engineer for the Building Department at the City of Oakland, Judy is extensively knowledgeable on Building Code compliance of residential and commercial constructions. Some of Judy's renowned projects include the TTC Sheppard-Yonge Station, VIVA H3 Canopy, Brooklyn Basin Phase II, and Franklin Street mixed-use building.