With local professionals by our side, the firm can put together: Construction drawings, Floor plans​ Site Plans Elevations Sections Details Grading plans Workshop drawings, 3D models   Digital renders / animation​​ ​ R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. DRAFTING IN OTTAWA OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Constructions Plans, Engineering Drawings, 3D Modelling, Digital Rendering in Ottawa Planning a residential renovation or conversion? Need BCIN approved building permit sets? We employ experts at providing these services. We also work on small commercial projects. We have been serving Ottawa & Ontario with drafting & design services for decades. First things first We offer consulting to figure out what you'll need for the project and what to expect from the city. We also offer zoning reviews - this crucial step confirms your project's limitations before any other drawings / work gets done. Our design services Construction drawings, Floor plans Site Plans Elevations Sections Details Grading plans Workshop drawings, 3D models Digital renders / animation

R.Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. has drafted / constructed covered porches and decks all throughout Ottawa - wether it's retrofitting existing porches or creating new!  R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. PORCH AND DECK PERMIT PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Ottawa Porches and Decks Plans R.Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. has drafted / constructed covered porches and decks all throughout Ottawa - wether it's retrofitting existing porches or creating new! A covered porch can be a beautiful and functional addition to your home, enhancing both its appearance and livability. By considering the purpose, style, materials, and features that will best suit your needs, you can create a porch that is both welcoming and comfortable. Planning your project Purpose Outdoor Living Space: If you plan to use it for entertaining, relaxing, or dining, you might want a larger porch Entryway: If it’s primarily for entry, you might want a smaller porch with just enough space for a couple of chairs or a small bench. Style and aesthetic The style of the porch should complement the overall design of your home. Consider the following design styles: Traditional Modern/Contemporary: Craftsman/Bungalow Farmhouse Coastal Size and location Consider how much space you have available and where you want the porch. There are a few options for placement: Front Porch Side Porch Wraparound Porch Back Porch Railings Wood railings are traditional and can be custom-designed with spindles or a more solid panel. Metal railings (welded iron or steel) can add a modern or industrial feel. If you want a more open, airy design, consider glass railings that provide visibility and maximize light. Ottawa Deck and Porch Builders 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 creates custom home plans in Ottawa with tailored layouts, detailed drawings, and permit-ready designs to match your vision and needs. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. CUSTOM HOME PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Custom Home Plans in Ottawa At R.Viau Drafting & Design , we transform your ideas into precise, build-ready construction plans that lay the foundation for your dream home. With a focus on creativity, technical accuracy, and personalized service, we work with you to design a home that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you have a clear concept or need help developing your vision, our experienced team provides expert guidance and tailored drafting solutions. From concept to final plans, we ensure every detail supports your lifestyle, reflects your personality, and prepares you for a seamless construction process. We have built residential buildings in Ottawa and surrounding areas. Custom Home Guide People choose to build custom homes for a variety of reasons. Designing and building your own offers you level of personalization and flexibility that is not typically available with standard pre-built homes. Zoning review Aesthetic Goal Design Purpose Costs Zoning Review The size of your build depends entirely on your lot size and your zoning. With a zoning review, we can get a clear cut idea of what obstacles we might have to face. Property Setbacks Setbacks refer to the required minimum distance between a building or structure and the property line or other boundaries, as dictated by local zoning laws or municipal building codes. Height Restrictions Zoning height regulations can vary based on several factors, including the zoning district, the type of property, and the specific characteristics of the location. Use of the Property Permitted Uses are the activities or developments that are allowed by right within a particular zoning district. These uses do not require a special permit or approval beyond basic compliance with the zoning code. If met with obstacles, we can request a variance (a special exception) from the zoning requirements. Aesthetic Goals Let us know what type of style you wish to pursue. Traditional Types: Colonial, Cape Cod, Farmhouse Typically these styles offer: symmetrical facades, steeply pitched roofs, dormer windows, brick or wood siding, gable or hipped roofs. these homes typically feature a rectangular shape, often with a central front door and evenly spaced windows. Modern Styles: Mid-century Modern, International Style, Contemporary Typically these homes have: Clean lines, flat roofs or low-pitched gables, large windows, open floor plans, integration with nature. emphasis on sustainability, open spaces, and natural light. This style is characterized by an emphasis on simplicity, function, and integration with the landscape. Revival Styles: Victoria, Tudor Revival, Neo classical Typically, these styles offer: Decorative trim, asymmetrical design, steeply pitched roofs, bay windows, elaborate cornices, and intricate detailing. Design Purpose The first and most crucial step in designing any house is to understand the purpose of the design. What are the primary goals and needs of the household? Family Size and Lifestyle Are you designing for a small family, a large family, or an individual? Do you have pets? Is there a need for guest rooms, home offices, or multi-generational spaces? Type of House Will the house be a family home, a vacation home, a retirement home, a rental property, or a home office? Each type will have different requirements. Future flexibility While designing for today, it’s wise to think about future flexibility and growth. If you anticipate future changes, such as growing your family or working from home more, plan for: Room for Expansion Flexible Spaces Technology Infrastructure: Custom Home Costs Lastly and ultimately it all comes down to the budget. A custom home can vary widely depending on factors like location, size, design complexity, quality of materials, and additional features. However, a general breakdown can help provide a clearer understanding of what to expect when planning a budget for a custom-built home. Location One of the most significant variables is the cost of land. In more expensive urban areas, land can be the largest single expense, while in rural areas, it may be significantly less. Size of Home The size of your home, measured in square footage (sq ft), is a major factor in determining the overall cost. The larger the home, the more expensive it will be to build due to increased materials, labor, and systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical). Design and Complexity The more personalized the design (non-standard layouts, unusual features), the higher the cost. Complex designs with details such as vaulted ceilings, custom windows, and advanced framing can add up significantly. Materials High-end finishes, such as custom cabinetry, premium flooring (hardwood, marble), and luxury bathroom fixtures, can increase the budget substantially.

R.Viau Drafting & Design has designed and built a multitude of garages for the community of Ottawa since 1985.​​​​​ We have experience with car garages of all kinds (attached / detached, single / double), car-ports, storage garages, sheds, and more. A garage isn't just a place to park a car—it's a multifunctional space that adds convenience, security, and value to everyday life. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. CUSTOM GARAGES OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Garage Plans in Ottawa R.Viau Drafting & Design has designed and built a multitude of garages for the community of Ottawa since 1985. We have experience with car garages of all kinds (attached / detached, single / double), car-ports, storage garages, sheds, and more. A garage isn't just a place to park a car—it's a multifunctional space that adds convenience, security, and value to everyday life. Planning your garage Purpose A garage isn't just about parking - it's about creating a space that fits the needs and lifestyle of the homeowner. Some people even convert part of their garage into additional living space, such as a home gym, office, or entertainment area. Size With a quick review, we'll be able to determine what is and what isn't permitted on your lot. Usual rule of thumb is to have a 4' offset from your property line. Design Let us know what aesthetic you wish to accomplish with your finishes such as: the siding, the roof slope, the windows, the garage door, etc. Estimated Costs A single car garage can range from $50,000 - $100,000 A two car garage can range from $90,000 - $140,000 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. Different purposes, different aesthetics Garages come in various styles, each offering different functional and aesthetic advantages depending on the homeowner's needs, the style of the home, and personal preferences. Attached garages Carports Detached garages Sheds

R. Viau Drafting & Design creates custom coach house plans in Ottawa with bylaw-compliant designs, detailed drawings, and permit-ready documentation. R.VIAU DRAFTING & DESIGN LTD. COACH HOUSE PLANS OVER 35+ YEARS OF SERVICE Coach House Permit Plans in Ottawa R.Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. specializes in creating detailed and compliant coach house permit plans tailored to meet municipal regulations and client needs. Whether you're planning to build a secondary dwelling for rental income, family use, or as a guest suite, we deliver precise drawings and documentation to streamline the approval process. What is a Coach House? In Ottawa and throughout Ontario, there’s growing interest in small, self-contained residences built on the same lot as a main house. Commonly referred to as coach houses or accessory units, these separate dwellings offer a practical way to create additional living space. Whether used to generate rental income, house family members, or accommodate guests, they present a versatile and increasingly sought-after housing option. Increased Property Value An expertly crafted coach house can significantly enhance your property's market appeal. Many prospective purchasers find added value in a home that includes additional living quarters, particularly when those spaces offer opportunities for rental income or versatile use. Additional Income Leasing a secondary dwelling on your property (such as a coach house) offers an effective means of earning extra income with minimal daily effort. Whether you opt for extended rentals, short-term stays, or platforms like Airbnb, it can serve as a steady financial boost. Space for Guests or Family Coach houses provide an ideal setup for families looking to live near one another while maintaining personal space. They allow different generations such as aging parents or grown children to have their own private residence on the same property. This leads to supporting close-knit yet independent living arrangements. Perks of building a Coach House Our Drafting Services Site Analysis & Feasibility Study Evaluating lot size, shape, and topography Checking municipal regulations and zoning bylaws for coach houses Identifying potential design challenges and opportunities Detailed Drawings Producing comprehensive blueprints for construction Including floor plans, elevations, sections, and site plans Ensuring compliance with the OBC and local bylaws Permit Application Support Preparing all necessary documentation for city approvals Coordinate with inspectors to facilitate permit acquisition Construction Support & Project Management Providing oversight during the building process Coordinating with contractors and suppliers Conducting site visits to ensure design adherence Fire Safety Experts Our team collaborates closely with Fire Inspectors and BCIN-accredited designers, ensuring every project meets fire safety standards and regulatory requirements, with support from trusted Ottawa-based fire safety professionals . Drafting Experts We have a team of BCIN designers, making sure that everything is done right and up to code. Zoning Experts With hundreds of zoning reviews done over the last 40 years, we have great knowledge of the obstacles regarding coach houses. With a zoning review, we can highlight the problem areas before you get any work started. Construction Experts Our team at R.Viau Construction & Developments also provides a combined 80 years of construction knowledge and expertise. We have experience with many additional / secondary units, new builds and so much more. Our Team

Visit our Fire Safety Website! www.Ottawafiresafety.ca Building Retrofits A thorough retrofit gives you a chance to audit your building’s energy performance. The retrofits you undertake can reduce your building’s operational costs – particularly if it is older – as well as help attract tenants and gain a market edge. Click here for our Fire Safety Website!

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 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 has effectively provided Ottawa with zoning reviews for all kinds of projects for the last 35 years. Planning a new addition, an extension or garage? A zoning review confirms your project's limitations before any other drawings or work get's done.​ Zoning Reviews in Ottawa R.Viau Drafting & Design has passionately provided zoning reviews for a multitude of projects in Ottawa and Ontario. Planning a new addition, an extension or garage? A zoning review confirms your project's limitations before any other drawings or work get's done. When is a zoning review essential ? New construction Whether you're constructing a new home, office building, or any other type of structure, a zoning review is required to ensure the proposed development is permitted in the area New additions or extensions If you plan to add extra rooms, build a garage, add a second storey, or extend the footprint of an existing structure, a zoning review ensures that the proposed expansion doesn't violate zoning bylaws. Change of use If you're changing how a property is used such as: converting a residential home into a rental unit, or turning an agricultural building into a residential dwelling), A zoning review is necessary to ensure that the new use is permitted in the zoning district. Dividing existing lots When you plan to subdivide a property (for example, dividing a large residential lot into smaller lots), the zoning review ensures the subdivision meets minimum zoning bylaw requirements. When is a zoning review NOT essential ? Minor interior renovations Small changes to the interior of a home or business (e.g., painting, replacing flooring) that do not affect the building's exterior typically do not require a zoning review. Repairs or maintenance General repairs or upgrades such as roof repair, window replacement or anything that doesn't change the structure of the building generally doesn't' require zoning approval. Permitted uses If you're building or developing a property in a zone where your intended use is already permitted by the zoning bylaw, and the proposed project complies with all zoning standards, a zoning review may not be necessary. 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. What we'll need from you A survey plan is required to do any legitimate zoning review. Review & Report With the survey plan, we'll accurately review every zoning 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!

R.Viau Drafting is Ottawa's original ULC compliant Fire Shutter Consultant and Installer. We provide and install economic fire shutters at a economic price. We also offer the options of more eloquent and aesthetic fire shutters which do fluctuate in price. Wether you simply wish to improve your building's fire safety or are receiving work orders from the city - give us a call. Fire Shutter Consulting & Installation in Ottawa & Ontario R.Viau Drafting is Ottawa's original ULC compliant Fire Shutter Consultant and Installer. If you have seen a fire shutter in down town Ottawa - odds are we hav e installed it. We also covered most of Ontario and Quebec. Click here to visit our Fire Safety Website!

R. Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. has maintained fire safety plans for the majority of Ottawa since the 80s.  Our fire safety experts are well-versed and experienced in creating: evacuation plans, fire safety reports, fire safety plans, fire safety strategies, and building updates to current fire safety codes. We also perform building inspections. Fire Safety Plans R. Viau Drafting & Design Ltd. has maintained fire safety plans for the majority of Ottawa since the early 80s. Click here for our Fire Safety Website!

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.