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Navigating the nuances of Canadian building codes was like assembling IKEA furniture — tricky but doable. “Every city has a [different] bylaw. I started by reading about that, and I enrolled in a course at the library that’s free, a sort of project management course,” he says.
When it comes to the practical part of construction, Mortazavi found another big difference between Can- ada and Iran — materials. “We have earthquakes back home, so you don’t use wood, you have to go with con- crete or steel. But here you have to, for a small project, use wood. Because that’s natural and common.”
Recertification, for Mortazavi, was more of a renova- tion, not full-scale architectural overhaul, because his degree was recognized in Canada. But in his quest for recertification, Mortazavi faced more paperwork than drywall. “I had to apply for it, send my documents, my [Iranian architecture] licence, and [proof of] experience,” he explains. This process took over six months, but the journey didn’t end there.
To fully practise as an architect in Canada, Mortazavi needs to work 1,600 hours under a registered architect, then pass a grueling exam — The Examination for Architects in Canada, or ExAC. “The exam lasts two full days, nine to five p.m.,” he says. “You have to pass five subjects. If you fail any subject, you have a one-year opportunity to take it again.” Until then, in Canada, Mortazavi is an “architectural designer.”
Earlier this year, the Alberta government announced the formation of a new advisory committee that will make recommendations on how to make it easier for immigrants to have their professional credentials recognized in this province.
“With many newcomers bringing highly valued skill sets across multiple sectors, by streamlining and making the credentialing process more efficient, we can continue to have the best and highest-quality workforce in
the world,” said Muhammad Yaseen, the Minister
of Immigration and Multiculturalism, when the committee was struck.
Despite these challenges, Mortazavi’s resilience and determination have seen him through. He set up A-1 Design Studio in 2019, and soon began taking on freelance projects. His work in Canada primarily focuses on smaller residential and commercial projects, a significant shift from the large-scale public works he designed in Iran.
One striking element of Mortazavi’s home designs is the balance between symmetry and contrast, achieved using materials like stone, combined with contemporary
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features like clean lines and metal roofing. The ability to merge historical charm with modern innovation makes his architectural creations truly distinctive and memorable.
Mortazavi’s journey is a testament to his unyielding spirit and dedication to his craft. “I have a good opportunity,” he acknowledges. And though he is open to future possibilities, including potentially moving to Vancouver or Toronto for more projects, for now, he’s focused on making his mark in Alberta.
As I leave the café, I glance back at Mortazavi, still seated with his flat cap and button-up, a gentle smile playing on his lips. Here is a man who had not only redefined his own path but also enriched the architectural landscape of his new home. His journey, like his designs, stands as a testament to the strength found in foundations, both literal and metaphorical. ED.
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EYVANAK Residential and Commercial Complex Designed
by Vahid Mortazavi
in Iran
Under development: eight units in Edmonton designed by A1 Design Studio