I’m Marilyn Ypes, the proud owner of Marilyn Ypes Architect Inc.
I look forward to sharing my story. I hope that you will enjoy getting to know me better.
Architecture runs through my veins! I have been an Architect with my own business since 1985, and to this day, I don’t know what I would like to do if I could not be an Architect. It all started with my grandfather, who was an Architect in Indonesia. After him, my father became an Architect first in the Netherlands and then in Toronto, Canada.
I grew up with Architecture in the house, and when my eyes were barely above the dining room table, I would watch my father sketch and work on blueprints, and I would ask him about what he was doing. Patiently he explained, and before I knew it, I was copying him.
After I finished the University of Waterloo in 1985, I joined my father and his partner, Don Jackson, in the Architectural Firm of Jackson Ypes & Associates, Architects and Engineers, before setting up my own practice.
Over the past three decades and more, the emergence and enhancement of technology has made such a difference in the way we do business. I have seen the start of cell phones and fax machines all the way to BIM and social media. But what has not changed is the way we think about design. The principles of good design, environmental responsibility, social conscience, and responding to people’s wants and needs, all contribute to creating good Architecture.
As an individual, I believe what sets me apart from others is my integrity, honesty, hard work, and doing the best I can for each client. I like to satisfy my clients’ requests and then add something beautiful extra. How do I do this? I love talking to my clients in collaboration to create something beautiful and practical. I love the challenge of designing with a difficult site, zoning issue, or diverse client interests. To create something beautiful out of so many challenging issues brings me great satisfaction. Moreover, I am fair in my pricing and provision of services and deliver commitments on time.
When I am not at work, I am outdoors canoe camping in the summer. I also love opera, reading, spending time with my family. I also give back to the community by contributing to mentoring Internationally trained Architects. I had a chance to combine two of my passions – horses and Architecture, when we won the competition to design the equestrian buildings for the Pan Am games.
I also feel very strongly about protecting animals and support humane societies and pet welfare.
I have enjoyed sharing my story about the things which matter to me and how they influence the way I do business.
If you or someone you know could benefit from our expertise as a leading architecture firm in Toronto, serving clients across Toronto, Mississauga, Markham, Barrie, Peterborough, Cobourg & Hamilton, ON, I invite you to get in touch. Please visit our website at www.marilynypesarchitect.com.
Sincerely,
Marilyn