predesign, conceptual, planning, architecture,
interior design, space planning and consulting

 
 
 

Joseph G.A. Colonna

Masters of Architecture

With over three decades of architectural design experience, Mr. Colonna epitomizes the quintessential definition of a true "Architect". His respect of the art form embraces the entire notion that architecture is simply just that, an art… an art which marries "requirement": with wish" and results in designs which not only function purely, but add something to the visual image of the landscape that they inherit… making it better and more pleasing to the environs.

Having won numerous industry awards and attained National, and International, project recognition for work such as "On-The-Henley" and "the Maid of the Mist Plaza Complex", Mr. Colonna has distinguished his firm as a leader in providing unmatched designs while servicing his clients needs with a complimentary team of hands-on consultants from Structural and Mechanical engineers to interior Décor professionals.

This assembled team allows Mr. Colonna to co-ordinate and direct each facet of every project, from concept to completion, in a concerted effort to achieve both budget and calendar expectations successfully.

He has taken this approach even further by strategically aligning Gateway Homes Builders (Niagara) ltd. as his primary construction resource for all custom residential projects ranging from Renovations and additions to New Homes.

Team / Firm Approach

"The Architect is an artist or he is nothing; But he is not an artist like a painter or a poet. To create a house is to mix pragmatism and poetry, but surely not in equal measure or according to some fixed Formula." -Robert A.M. Stern . In the spirit of this quotation, words borrowed from an Architect whom I admire a great deal, and whose work has influenced many of my projects. Thirty years of practice have taught me that while the painter may work in private before his easel. The Architect does not work alone or with his own money. He needs the collaboration of others working closely with him on the development of the designs and on the technical drawings needed to build those designs. He depends on the Engineer's, The building Contractors and the Craftsmen, those charged to realize his efforts in brick and mortar. He Also depends on the inspiration, Knowledge and especially the dreams of his clients to extract the energy of his own Creativity.

Philosophy

The projects we have produced substantiates a strong believe that the art and craft of architecture can enrich the lives of those it serves. "Architecture is an art, one of the primary obligations of which is to create a sense of place, to make buildings that help locate us in a physical and cultural context that is thereby respected and enhanced." …Robert Stern.

Education

Ryerson Polytechnic Institute

  • Architectural Technology Diploma

  • University of Toronto

  • Bachelor of Architecture

  • State University of New York at Buffalo

  • Master of Architecture (M. Arch)

  • Professional Associations

    O.A.A.

    (Ontario Association of Architects)

    M.R.A.I.C

    (Member of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada)

    © Joseph G A Colonna Architect Inc.