About us
A thoughtful framework for the missing middle.
It is our hope and intention to research and design pre-approved Master File architectural plans that are scalable and predictable, but beautiful and spatially dynamic—carefully adapted to the physical realities of Ottawa's urban lots.
Our approach
What guides our work.
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01Grounded in Real Lots
We believe good design should embrace local site conditions. We aim to build models suited for Ottawa's specific landscape, exploring practical solutions—like dedicated stormwater cisterns—to naturally support municipal grading and drainage guidelines.
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02Working with Code & Zoning
Our goal is to use the Ontario Building Code (OBC) and local zoning as guides to thoughtfully maximize space and value. By standardizing the structural core and mechanical layouts, our intention is to secure these designs as pre-approved Master Files, effectively removing the traditional municipal planning process altogether.
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03A Growing Catalogue
As we continue this work, our vision is to develop a diverse library of pre-approved plans in varying sizes. We aim to eventually build a comprehensive catalogue of structures, providing landowners with a complete menu of ready-to-build options tailored to different lot dimensions.
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04Contextual Beauty
We feel that pre-approved plans should still inspire. By pairing distinct, high-quality exterior elevations with a consistent structural layout, our wish is to deliver dignified, spatially dynamic architecture that enriches existing neighborhoods.
Our hope
Clarity for housing in Ottawa.
Ultimately, we hope to bring a sense of clarity to housing—replacing complex municipal hurdles with a straightforward, predictable path for building architectural gems in Ottawa.
The Lantern© Structures is the work of Marco Ianni Architect Limited (MIA Ltd), an Ottawa-based architecture practice.
Explore the structure