About Us - Zaparalo Quintho Architecture

Our Story

Started back in 2009, we kicked things off in a cramped office above a coffee shop on Queen West. Just two architects with a shared belief that buildings shouldn't cost the earth - literally.

Fast forward to today, and we've grown into a team that's passionate about creating spaces where sustainability isn't just a checkbox. It's baked into everything we do. Whether it's a cozy residential project or a sprawling commercial space, we approach each one like it's our own.

We're not gonna pretend we have all the answers, but we've learned a ton from working with hundreds of clients across the GTA. Every project teaches us something new, and honestly, that's what keeps this work exciting.

See What We've Built

How We Think About Design

Look, architecture shouldn't be complicated. Good design comes down to understanding what you actually need and making it happen without destroying the planet in the process.

People First, Always

We start every project by listening - and we mean really listening. Your space needs to work for your life, not some textbook idea of what architecture "should" be. We've ditched the formal presentations for real conversations over coffee.

Sustainable Because It Matters

We're not slapping solar panels on everything and calling it green. Real sustainability means smart material choices, energy efficiency that makes sense, and designs that'll stand the test of time. Less waste, more thought.

Context & Community

Every building sits somewhere specific, with neighbors and a neighborhood that matters. We spend time understanding the local vibe, the heritage, what works and what doesn't. Your project becomes part of something bigger.

Budget Reality Check

We've been in this game long enough to know that dream designs mean nothing if they cost twice what you've got. We work within real budgets and find creative ways to get you the most value without cutting corners on quality.

Our Journey So Far

A few milestones that shaped who we are today

2009 - The Beginning

Two architects, one vision. Started with residential projects and a commitment to doing things differently. Our first office had a leaky ceiling but tons of natural light.

2012 - Going Green

Completed our first LEED-certified project. It clicked for us - sustainability wasn't extra, it was essential. Changed how we approached every design from that point on.

2015 - Team Expansion

Grew to a team of eight. More perspectives, more skills, better work. Also moved to our current space on Queen West - no more leaky ceilings.

2018 - Heritage Focus

Started specializing in heritage building restoration. Turns out old buildings have incredible stories, and saving them matters more than tearing down and starting fresh.

2021 - Award Recognition

Received the Ontario Architecture Excellence Award. Nice validation, but honestly, the best reward is seeing clients actually love living and working in the spaces we design.

2024 - Today & Tomorrow

Over 200 projects completed, a passionate team of 15, and still learning every day. We're exploring new sustainable materials and pushing what's possible in urban architecture.

Meet The Team

The folks who make it all happen

Elena Zaparalo

Co-Founder & Principal Architect

The one who started it all. Elena's got this uncanny ability to see potential where others see problems. She's our resident heritage building whisperer.

Marcus Quintho

Co-Founder & Principal Architect

Numbers guy meets creative mind. Marcus ensures our designs are beautiful AND buildable. He's obsessed with sustainable materials in the best way possible.

Sarah Chen

Senior Project Architect

Sarah keeps the trains running on time. She's managed over 50 projects with us and somehow never loses her cool, even when contractors call at 7am.

James Okonkwo

Lead Interior Designer

James makes spaces feel right. He's got this gift for understanding how people move through rooms and what they actually need versus what they think they want.

Priya Sharma

Sustainability Consultant

Priya's the one who keeps us honest about our green commitments. She knows every sustainable building technique and isn't afraid to challenge our assumptions.

David Moreau

Project Coordinator

The glue that holds everything together. David coordinates between clients, contractors, and our team. He's basically a professional problem-solver who lives on coffee.

Why Work With Us?

Honestly? Because we actually care about getting it right. We're not the biggest firm in Toronto, and that's kind of the point. You won't get lost in a sea of projects here.

We'll answer your calls, show up to site visits, and treat your budget like it's our own money. Our approach is collaborative - we want your input throughout the process, not just at the beginning and end.

Plus, we've been doing this long enough to know what works in Toronto's climate, with Toronto's building codes, and with Toronto's mix of old and new architecture. Local knowledge matters more than fancy design software.

Let's Talk About Your Project