R. Viau Drafting & Design creates custom kitchen renovation plans in Ottawa—expert layouts, detailed drawings, and permit-ready designs tailored to your home. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. KITCHEN RENOVATION PLANS PLAN THE KITCHEN YOU'VE ALWAYS WANTED Kitchen Renovation plans in Ottawa At R. Viau Drafting & Design , we specialize in creating high-quality, designer-level kitchen renovation plans that blend style, functionality, and precision. Whether you're dreaming of a modern open-concept kitchen, a timeless gourmet layout, or a space optimized for family living, our custom drafting services bring your vision to life - down to the last detail. From smart storage solutions and appliance layouts to code-compliant electrical and plumbing schematics, we deliver clear, build-ready plans tailored to your lifestyle and aesthetic. Let’s design a kitchen that not only looks stunning but works beautifully for years to come. What We Offer Existing Layout & Demolition Plans We begin by drafting a precise representation of your current kitchen. This includes wall locations, windows, doors, structural elements, existing appliances, and service lines. Our demolition plan highlights what will be removed or altered to make way for the new design - minimizing guesswork and streamlining the transition. Proposed Floor Plans Your new kitchen layout is created based on your vision and needs. We consider workflow efficiency the “kitchen triangle”, space utilization, and movement patterns. Whether you're after a sleek galley, expansive island design, or open-concept layout, we maximize both beauty and practicality. Cabinetry & Storage Detailing We draft cabinetry elevations and floor plans that reflect custom or semi-custom designs. This includes: Exact cabinet dimensions and placements Drawer and shelf configurations Pantry design Appliance garages, pull-outs, and vertical storage features These details help you visualize your kitchen’s functionality and help cabinet makers quote and build accurately. Lighting & Electrical Plans Lighting makes or breaks a kitchen’s usability and ambiance. We provide layered lighting layouts that include: Task lighting (under-cabinet) Ambient and recessed lighting Feature pendants or chandeliers Electrical outlets, switches, and smart controls All placements are drawn to scale with code references where applicable. When do you typically need a permit? Structural Changes Any modifications to load-bearing walls, beams, or foundations. Major Plumbing / HVAC changes Installing or significantly altering electrical systems, plumbing, or HVAC systems. Our process Site Visit Book us for a site visit! We'll review your project's goals and guide you into the right direction. Drafting We'll prepare preliminary plans to begin, then prepare official permit plans once we're happy with a result. Permit Application Once we're set with all the plans, we'll prepare a permit application, submit it and deal with all of the city's comments. Construction To make it even more seamless for our clients, we can also do all the construction required for your project.

R. Viau Drafting & Design offers basement walkout plans in Ottawa with code-compliant designs, detailed drawings, and permit-ready documentation tailored to your home. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. BASEMENT WALKOUT ENTRANCES OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Basement Walkouts Entrances Plans in Ottawa At R.Viau Drafting & Design , we specialize in creating precise, permit-ready plans for basement walkout entrances. Whether you're looking to add a separate entrance for a rental unit, improve accessibility, or enhance your home's functionality, our team ensures every design meets local building codes and zoning regulations. With a focus on safety, efficiency, and seamless integration with your existing structure, we guide you from concept to permit approval with professional, tailored support. What is a Basement Walkout Entrance? A basement walkout is a structural modification that provides direct outdoor access from the lower level of a home, typically via an exterior door and stairway. This separate entryway enables movement to and from the basement without the need to pass through the upper living areas. Independent Access Ideal for separate living spaces like apartments, guest suites, or home offices, allowing people to enter the basement without disturbing the main house. Natural Light and Ventilation Walkout basements typically allow more natural light compared to traditional below-grade basements, making them feel brighter and more livable. Improved Home Value Homes with walkout basements often have higher resale value due to the extra square footage and potential for separate living areas. Basement Walkout Entry Benefits Our Drafting Services Initial Consultation & Site Evaluation Discuss client goals, needs, and intended use (rental unit, private access) Evaluate the existing structure and basement layout Review site conditions including grading, drainage, and access points Detailed Drafting & Construction Plans Produce professional, permit-ready drawings including: Foundation modifications Stair and landing design Door placement and framing details Drainage and waterproofing solutions Site grading and elevation plans Permit Application Support Prepare and submit all required documents for municipal approval Respond to city feedback and provide revisions as needed Communicate with inspectors and planning departments on the client’s behalf Construction Guidance & Support (Optional) Assist clients or contractors with interpreting plans during construction Offer site visit services for plan verification and issue resolution

R. Viau Drafting & Design – Ottawa-based designer since 1985, specializing in residential, commercial, and custom design projects with decades of trusted experience. R. VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. OTTAWA'S PREMIER DESIGN & BUILD FIRM SERVING ONTARIO AND QUEBEC FOR 35+ YEARS ABOUT Locally owned R. Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. was established more than 35 years ago in Ottawa, Ontario by Robert Viau. The firm has passionately served Ottawa’s residential and commercial markets with numerous types of projects since then. Click here to learn more! Our Capabilities: We specialize in a wide range of drafting and design projects, from detailed custom homes to commercial developments and small-scale renovations. Projects of All Sizes: No job is too big or too small. W hether you're planning a complete new build or need plans for a simple addition, we’re here to help. Flexible to Your Budget: We work with clients across all budget levels, offering cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or design integrity. Client-Centered Approach: Every project is tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that your ideas and goals are at the heart of the design process. Attention to Detail: Our experienced team is known for precision, efficiency, and creative problem-solving which is key to turning concepts into fully realized plans. We’re pleased to offer free estimates to our clients. To get a free quote on your project, provide us with the location, size of property and type of service needed, and we’ll get right back with you! Since 1982 Contact Us! ABOUT CLIENTS CLIENTS CONTACT CONTACT Employment Looking to gain experience in drafting or trades that will serve you for a lifetime? Looking for a fulfilling summer job? Join us! Apply for a job with R. Viau Drafting & Design Ltd., please send a cover letter together with your C.V. to: charles@rviaudrafting.ca Head Office contact@rviaudrafting.ca charles@rviaudrafting.ca Office: 613-748-6157 Cell: 613-804-6157 Get a quote: 613-804-6157

R. Viau Drafting & Design offers expert renovation plans in Ottawa, guiding homeowners from concept to permit-ready designs with precision and personalized service. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. RENOVATION PLANS BIG & SMALL PROJECTS Renovation plans in Ottawa R. Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. has helped Ottawa with hundreds of renovation projects over the years. Renovation Plan Examples - Creating open concept spaces by removing structural walls - Tenant fit up plans - Adding a powder room - Re-organizing floor layouts - Fire retrofits - Creating up-to-code spaces for use in accessible group homes and so much more. Renovation Services Renovation & Remodeling Full Home Remodels Full Kitchen Renovation Full Bathroom Renovation Basement Renovations Exterior & Structural Services Roof Additions Lintel / Post and Beam Plans Window Replacement Plans Structural Details Aesthetic & Landscaping Site Plans Landscaping Plans Grading Plans Home Accessibility Accessible Home Modifications Plans When do you typically need a permit? Structural Changes Any modifications to load-bearing walls, beams, or foundations. Major Plumbing / HVAC changes Installing or significantly altering electrical systems, plumbing, or HVAC systems. Change of use Converting a space to a different use (e.g., turning a basement into a living space). Fire Safety Renovations Changes that impact fire safety systems or egress points. Our process Site Visit Book us for a site visit! We'll review your project's goals and guide you into the right direction. Drafting We'll prepare preliminary plans to begin, then prepare official permit plans once we're happy with a result. Permit Application Once we're set with all the plans, we'll prepare a permit application, submit it and deal with all of the city's comments. Construction To make it even more seamless for our clients, we can also do all the construction required for your project.

R. Viau Drafting & Design provides expert bathroom renovation plans in Ottawa, offering custom designs, permit-ready drawings, and personalized remodeling solutions. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. BATHROOM RENOVATION PLANS ELEVATE YOUR EVERYDAY Bathroom Renovation plans in Ottawa At R. Viau Drafting & Design , we specialize in creating detailed, code-compliant bathroom renovation plans tailored to your unique space and vision. Whether you're updating an outdated layout, expanding for more comfort, or reconfiguring for accessibility, our expert drafting services ensure every element (from plumbing and electrical to fixtures and finishes) is thoughtfully designed and ready for permits or construction. With clear technical drawings and 3D visuals, we help homeowners, contractors, and designers turn ideas into buildable plans - efficiently and accurately. What We Offer Existing Layout & Demolition Plans We start by documenting the current bathroom layout to create a clear picture of what's in place. A demolition plan is then created to indicate which elements will be removed, relocated, or preserved. Proposed Floor Plans We design new layout options based on your needs - whether it’s relocating a shower, expanding storage, or reconfiguring the space for improved functionality. Every plan is tailored to your bathroom’s size, plumbing limitations, and design preferences. Plumbing & Electrical Schematics Accurate plumbing and electrical drawings are critical for both safety and code compliance. We specify all new fixture locations, water line adjustments, drainage paths, lighting positions, outlet placement, and fan ventilation. Home Accessibility Upon request, we can design plans with these criterias in mind: Barrier-Free Layouts Roll-In Showers & Grab Bar Placement Toilet accessibility and more When do you typically need a permit? Structural Changes Any modifications to load-bearing walls, beams, or foundations. Major Plumbing / HVAC changes Installing or significantly altering electrical systems, plumbing, or HVAC systems. Our process Site Visit Book us for a site visit! We'll review your project's goals and guide you into the right direction. Drafting We'll prepare preliminary plans to begin, then prepare official permit plans once we're happy with a result. Permit Application Once we're set with all the plans, we'll prepare a permit application, submit it and deal with all of the city's comments. Construction To make it even more seamless for our clients, we can also do all the construction required for your project.

R. Viau Drafting & Design delivers low-rise to mid-rise apartment plans in Ottawa with efficient layouts, zoning compliance, and permit-ready documentation. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. LOW-RISE TO MID-RISE BUILDING PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Low-rise & Mid-rise Apartment Plans in Ottawa As Ottawa continues to grow and intensify, low-rise and mid-rise residential developments offer a balanced approach to increasing density while preserving neighbourhood character. At R. Viau Drafting & Design , we provide detailed, permit-ready building plans for low-rise (up to 4 storeys) and mid-rise (typically 5–12 storeys) projects that meet local zoning, urban design guidelines, and Ontario Building Code requirements. Whether you're developing a multi-unit apartment, mixed-use building, or affordable housing initiative, our drafting services combine architectural clarity with practical buildability - helping you move confidently from concept to construction in Ottawa’s evolving urban landscape. We have built residential buildings in all of Ottawa and surrounding areas. We are experienced Robert, owner of R.Viau Drafting and Design, has 40 years experience with building development and a large number of other construction projects. Contact Us! Permit Plans Process Site Analysis and Preliminary Design Conduct an analysis of the site to understand its topography, zoning requirements, and local infrastructure. Develop initial design concepts that meet these parameters. Create Detailed Drawings Develop the full set of drawings including site plans, floor plans, elevations, structural designs, and MEP layouts Permit Submittal Submit the plans to the city for review. If the project requires a variance, this will likely involve public hearings or consultation periods where neighbors or community members may voice concerns. Revise and Address Feedback The city may request revisions to the plans based on safety, environmental, or zoning concerns. We will adjust the plans as needed to address these feedbacks. Obtain Permits Once the plans are approved, obtain the necessary permits to begin construction. Contact Us!

R. Viau Drafting & Design provides egress window plans in Ottawa with code-compliant designs, detailed drawings, and fast permit-ready documentation. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. EGRESS WINDOW PERMIT PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Egress Windows Permit Plans & Installation in Ottawa R.Viau Drafting & Design specializes in creating precise, code-compliant egress window plans tailored for Ottawa homes. Whether you’re upgrading your basement for safety, adding a secondary dwelling unit, or enhancing natural light and ventilation, our expert team ensures your egress windows meet all code and Ottawa's zoning by-laws. We provide detailed drawings that simplify the permit process and support safe, functional designs that protect your family and add value to your property. What is an egress window? Egress windows serve as essential emergency exits, offering an alternate way to leave a building safely during situations like fires. These windows are particularly crucial in spaces such as finished basements or bedrooms, where quick evacuation routes are necessary for occupant safety. When is an egress window required? When constructing or remodeling a basement, installing an emergency exit window is mandatory, particularly if the area will serve as a bedroom or additional living unit. This feature is essential to guarantee a safe escape route for residents during emergencies such as fires. Basements When converting a basement into usable living areas like bedrooms, recreational rooms, or offices, local building regulations typically mandate the installation of emergency exit windows. Since basement windows are often positioned below ground level and can be difficult to reach, having a designated escape window is vital to ensure a safe exit in emergencies such as fires. Second Stories or higher In buildings with multiple levels, emergency exit windows may be necessary for upper-floor rooms when no other safe means of evacuation exists, particularly in the absence of external fire escapes or balcony access. Our Drafting Services Initial Consultation & Site Evaluation Discuss client goals, needs, and intended use (e.g. rental unit, private access) Evaluate the existing structure and basement layout Review site conditions including grading, drainage, and access points Detailed Drafting & Construction Plans Produce professional, permit-ready drawings including: Foundation modifications Stair and landing design Door placement and framing details Drainage and waterproofing solutions Site grading and elevation plans Permit Application Support Prepare and submit all required documents for municipal approval Respond to city feedback and provide revisions as needed Communicate with inspectors and planning departments on the client’s behalf Construction Guidance & Support (Optional) Assist clients or contractors with interpreting plans during construction Offer site visit services for plan verification and issue resolution

R.Viau Drafting & Design has effectively provided Ottawa with Building Code Reviews for all kinds of projects for the last 35 years. We'll help identify your project's limitations whenever you are making changes to a building or structure that could affect its safety, structural integrity, accessibility, or other elements regulated by building codes. ​​ Building Code Reviews in Ottawa R.Viau Drafting & Design has effectively provided Ottawa with Building Code Reviews for all kinds of projects for the last 35 years. We'll help identify your project's limitations whenever you are making changes to a building or structure that could affect its safety, structural integrity, accessibility, or other elements regulated by building codes. When is a Building Code Review essential ? New construction Any new building, whether residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional, must undergo a building code review to ensure it complies with all applicable codes. Major Alterations If you are making major changes to the layout of your home or building, a Building Code Review will identify the requirements necessary to be compliant. Adding units Whether you're adding a room or a second storey, any addition to an existing building needs to comply with the building code. This includes ensuring that the addition is structurally sound, has appropriate means of egress and complies with fire safety standards. Accessibility Modifications If you need modifications done to your building to provide more accessibility such as adding ramps, providing wider door ways or adjusting bathrooms, a Building Code Review will reveal all your requirements. Our process Site Visit Book us for a site visit! We'll visit the site, review your project's goals and give you a general run down of our expectations with your project. Review & Report We'll attentively review every Building Code aspect that your project will touch and afterwards will prepare a report on all your project requirements. Calculated Decision Once you're equipped with this knowledge, you effectively know what you're up against. We can assist you into moving forward with plans or you can ultimately decide to not pursue this project!

Discover architecturally designed sunrooms in Ottawa by R.Viau Drafting & Design - blending innovative design, structural integrity, and seamless integration with your home. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. LUXURY SUNROOMS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Sunroom plans in Ottawa A sunroom is more than just an additional space - it’s a bright, inviting retreat that blends indoor comfort with the beauty of the outdoors. At R. Viau Drafting & Design , our designer sunroom plans are crafted with precision and elegance, tailored to complement your home’s architecture while maximizing natural light, comfort, and usability year-round. Our team has helped hundreds of clients with custom sunroom additions in Ottawa. From simple 3 season unheated sunrooms to 4 season sunrooms complete with electrical and heating. Key Elements of Our Designer Sunroom Plans Architectural Harmony & Customization We design sunrooms to seamlessly integrate with your home’s existing style - whether classic, modern, farmhouse, or transitional. Our plans carefully consider rooflines, window styles, siding, and materials to ensure the sunroom feels like a natural extension, not an afterthought. Maximizing Natural Light & Views Sunrooms thrive on abundant natural light. Our plans specify the ideal combination of floor-to-ceiling windows, skylights, and glass doors that capture sunlight and frame outdoor views without compromising privacy or energy efficiency. Structural Integrity & Climate Control We engineer sunroom structures with durable framing and insulated glazing systems designed for your climate zone - whether it means maximizing heat retention in winter or reducing solar gain in summer. Optional features include operable windows, ceiling fans, and integration with HVAC for all-season comfort. Functional Layout & Furnishing Zones Whether you envision a cozy reading nook, dining area, or indoor garden, our plans provide clear spatial organization that enhances flow and usability. Built-in seating, shelving, and planters can be integrated to create custom, multi-functional spaces. Sunrooms enhance a home’s livability and aesthetic appeal, providing a unique blend of indoor and outdoor experiences. Our process Site Visit Book us for a site visit! We'll review your project's goals and guide you into the right direction. Drafting We'll prepare preliminary plans to begin, then prepare official permit plans once we're happy with a result. Permit Application Once we're set with all the plans, we'll prepare a permit application, submit it and deal with all of the city's comments. Construction To make it even more seamless for our clients, we can also manage all the construction required for your project.

R. Viau Drafting & Design provides secondary unit plans in Ottawa with customized, bylaw-compliant designs and permit-ready drawings for legal rental suites. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. SECONDARY DWELLING PERMIT PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Secondary Dwelling Units / Basement Apartment Plans in Ottawa At R. Viau Drafting & Design, we specialize in designing Secondary Dwelling Units (SDUs) that add value, flexibility, and functionality to your property. Whether you're looking to create a legal basement apartment, garden suite, or coach house, we provide expert guidance and tailored design solutions to meet local zoning and building code requirements in Ottawa and surrounding areas. With over 35 years of experience, our team ensures that every SDU project is thoughtfully planned, efficiently executed, and seamlessly integrated into your existing property. What is a Secondary Dwelling Unit? In Ottawa, homeowners now have the flexibility to add up to three residential units on a single property, thanks to recent legislative changes under Bill 23. Previously, zoning rules allowed for only two. These additional living spaces (often referred to as accessory or secondary units) are fully independent dwellings that can either be built as standalone structures like backyard suites or laneway homes, or created by repurposing existing areas such as basements, garages, or attics. Typically smaller than the main residence, they offer practical solutions for expanding housing availability in urban neighborhoods. Key Characteristics Independent Living: Secondary units are fully equipped with essential amenities such as a private kitchen, bathroom, and living area - allowing for complete day-to-day functionality. On-Site Placement: These dwellings are situated on the same parcel of land as the main home and can be either integrated into the primary structure or built as a separate building. Versatile Functionality: Common uses include generating rental income, housing extended family, providing space for remote work, or serving as private guest accommodations. Advantages of Secondary Units Additional income Leasing an additional living space can generate consistent passive earnings. Space for family These spaces offer comfortable accommodations for elderly parents, grown children, or other family members, supporting multi-generational households. Increased property value Incorporating an ADU or SDU can increase your property’s worth by providing additional living areas. Affordable housing Contribute to easing housing shortages by expanding the rental options within a community. Our Drafting Services Site Evaluation & Feasibility Study Analyze the lot size, setbacks, and access points Check compliance with zoning bylaws, OBC, and fire code. Identify best location for SDU (basement, garage, addition, or detached structure) Detailed Drafting & Architectural Plans Produce complete, permit-ready construction drawings including: Floor plans Elevations and sections Site and grading plans (if applicable) Fire separation and egress requirements HVAC, plumbing, and electrical layout coordination Permit Application Support Prepare and organize all documentation for municipal permit submission Submit plans and respond to comments or revision requests from city officials Coordinate with other professionals (engineers, surveyors) if needed for approval Optional Construction Support Provide design clarification during construction Recommend trusted contractors if requested Offer site visit services to verify alignment with approved plans

We have decades of experience developing projects here in Ottawa & Ontario from start to finish. Our portfolio includes: Commercial spaces Commercial tenant fit ups Custom family homes Custom low to mid rise residential complexes Complete building retrofits Project Management Our keys to great projects & great success Project Efficiency: Streamlining the construction process is key We coordinate different aspects of the project (scheduling, resource allocation, etc.) This potentially reduces project duration Quality control: We always make sure the work meets quality standards and building codes Oversee subcontractors to maintain consistent quality Address issues promptly to maintain high standards Communication: Since we are a central point of contact for all stakeholders, our goal is to f acilitate clear communication between owners, designers, and contractors Provide regular project updates and reports Cost Management: We help control and potentially reduce overall project costs Manage budget effectively, identifying potential savings Prevent costly mistakes and delays Risk Mitigation: Identifying potential risks early in the project is something that is sadly often ignored We develop strategies to manage and minimize risks and handle unexpected issues so that unnecessary hiccups don't happen. Expertise: Our expertise allows us to navigate complex aspects of our projects more effectively and safely. Our expertise was learned through decades of experience and of surrounding ourselves with the best. We have decades of experience developing projects here in Ottawa & Ontario from start to finish. Our portfolio includes: Commercial spaces Commercial tenant fit ups Custom family homes Custom low to mid rise residential complexes Complete building retrofits Contact Us!

R. Viau Drafting & Design offers secondary unit inspections in Ottawa, ensuring code compliance and providing expert guidance for legal and safe rental conversions. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. SDU Feasibility Inspections UNCOVER HIDDEN ISSUES EARLY Can I add a secondary suite to my home? Yes, in many cities / municipalities, you can add a secondary unit—also known as an in-law suite, basement apartment, or accessory dwelling unit (ADU)—but it must meet specific zoning and building code requirements. At R. Viau Drafting & Design , we help homeowners navigate the process with professionally prepared SDU reports. What is an SDU inspection? A SDU feasibility inspection is an early-stage evaluation that helps a homeowner (or possible buyers) determine whether their property is suitable for building a Secondary Dwelling Unit (SDU) - like a basement suite, garden suite, or laneway home. Our SDU inspections give clear insights into zoning, code compliance and fire safety - so you can make confident informed decisions and avoid costly surprised down the road. Circumstances where SDU inspections are beneficial: Pre-purchase Inspections Getting an SDU inspection before buying a home is a smart move if you're planning to add a rental unit or multi-generational space. You don’t want to buy a house thinking you can add a suite, only to find out after closing that it’s not allowed—or would cost $50k more than you expected. This inspection helps avoid that mistake. Before Committing to Permit Plans SDU inspections are a great tool to use as they highlight the upgrades that are needed to meet building and zoning codes - before spending money on plans or permits. When Legalizing an Existing Unpermitted Suite Many homeowners inherit or buy properties with unpermitted basement or garage suites. If they want to bring them up to code (to rent legally, refinance, or sell), an SDU inspection outlines what’s missing and what needs to be fixed. As a Real Estate Investor or Developer If your goal is to rent out the unit, sell for profit, or create cash flow, an SDU inspection gives you clarity on whether the units are fully legal. The benefits of our secondary unit inspection Our SDU inspections, reports and cost analysis will provide you with a complete overview of all deficiencies present in the home. Our detailed reports empowers you to make informed decisions, avoid costly surprises and move forward with confidence - whether you're buying a home or looking to renovate your existing home. Book an inspection! We reply within the day. Name(Required) Email(Required) Describe Your Project(Required) Phone Type of Inspection Project Address Submit Site Visit Once booked for an inspection, we will meet on site and analyze the property together. Inspections can be done quickly - typically within 30 minutes to an hour depending on the building and what's needed. Report We'll prepare a written report with the building's deficiencies & a cost analysis (if requested) for all of the building's requirements. Turn-around time Ottawa Secondary Dwellings will have your complete report done within 1-2 business days. Inspection Process