Altforma is an architecture studio shaping precise, context-driven environments informed by Vancouver’s coastal condition and layered cultural fabric.

We design to enhance how people live—creating buildings and environments of enduring quality that foster resilient connections to both place and community. Our work spans private residences, multiplex and multi-residential housing, commercial projects, renovations, and urban design.

We collaborate closely with clients and project teams to translate complex challenges into clear, thoughtful design responses. Each project begins with a careful reading of context—through dialogue, observation, and analysis—leading to architectural decisions that are both deliberate and impactful. This approach has contributed to award-winning residential work.

The practice is led by principal architect Cedric Jacques Yu. Prior to founding Altforma, Cedric held senior roles at Dialog, Tyréns, and Henriquez Partners Architects, leading projects across a range of scales and typologies. His experience also includes work with internationally recognized studios in Stockholm, Paris, and Hong Kong.

Earlier in his career, Cedric founded and led an independent visualization studio, supporting design teams in making informed decisions through advanced visual communication.

In 2017, he was awarded the Gustav Douglas Award for emerging practitioners in visual arts, architecture, and design. He holds a Master of Architecture from the University of Toronto and a Master of Science in Urbanism from KTH Royal Institute of Technology.

Cedric’s work has been published in Canadian Architect, Arkitekten, and The Globe and Mail. He is also an adjunct professor at the University of British Columbia School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture.

Outside of practice, Cedric can often be found running Vancouver’s trails with his vizsla, Jango, or teaching the next generation of designers at UBC.

Some of our Services

Early-stage consulting, feasibility, and site selection

Development strategy and project entitlements

Schematic and concept design

Municipal approvals & stakeholder engagement

Rezoning, development permit & building permit

Consultant team coordination

Architectural permit drawings

Construction documents and technical detailing

Tender and bid assistance

Construction administration and construction phase services

Every project is supported by a carefully assembled team of consultants, engineers, specialists, and builders selected to suit its unique requirements. We coordinate the design process from early feasibility through approvals and construction, helping clients navigate complexity while maintaining clarity, quality, and project momentum.

We are experienced in BC Step Code, Passive House, LEED, municipal permitting processes, and the technical requirements of contemporary building delivery, balancing design ambition with constructability, sustainability, and regulatory compliance.

Our office utilizes BIM and CAD software for seamless project delivery and integration with teams. Digital visualization, virtual reality, and rapid prototyping help clients understand design decisions early, reduce uncertainty, and support informed decision-making throughout the project.

Team & Past contributors:

River Hughs | Luigi Antonio | Shane Wu | Tami Masunda | Kimberly Bellman

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