Polis: From the ancient Greek word for city —a place shaped by its people.
We believe good architecture shouldn’t be out of reach. It’s the foundation of healthy communities and sustainable futures, and an important part of helping people feel connected, comfortable, and inspired in the places they congregate.
That’s why we make the architectural process transparent, approachable, and easy to navigate.
Poliarchitecture and Polibuild work together as a unified practice, connecting design and construction from the outset.
We work across residential and commercial projects, from custom homes and multi-unit housing to retrofits and community spaces. We are especially drawn to ambitious and unconventional projects that challenge expectations of what architecture in the North can be.
With expertise in Passive House design, prefabrication, mass timber, and high-performance building systems, we bring a practical understanding of sustainability, durability, and construction to complex projects and complex sites. We believe new ideas, better building methods, and thoughtful design can help shape a stronger architectural culture in the North.
Practice
People
Anastasia Renaud Principal Architect (OAA, MRAIC, M.Arch)
A registered architect with the Ontario Association of Architects and a member of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, Anastasia leads Poliarchitecture with a deep understanding of Northern Ontario’s unique architectural conditions, shaped by a lifelong connection to the region. In addition to her practice, she serves as a Sessional Instructor at the McEwen School of Architecture and is an executive member of Building Equality in Architecture North (BEAN), where she contributes to advancing equity, mentorship, and leadership within the architectural profession.
With her experience in site planning and the design and management of simple and complex project types, Anastasia works closely with her clients to craft bright and inviting spaces that highlight their place's natural beauty. She works to ensure every project reflects the lasting value of thoughtful architecture in people’s everyday lives.
Michael Renaud Construction Manager (H.B.Comm)
Michael is integral to poliarchitecture, leading Polibuild, the construction arm of our practice. He oversees construction management from pre-construction through to completion, bringing over a decade of experience in estimating, project management, and hands-on building.
His attention to detail and focus on high-performance construction ensure projects are well coordinated, budget-aware, and thoughtfully executed—including Northern Ontario’s first to be certified Passive House.
Equally comfortable on site with trades, in the studio with architects, and at the table with clients, Michael is a critical link between vision, constructability, and project delivery.
Jessie Ouellette Architectural Designer (BAS)
Jessie holds a Bachelor of Architectural Studies and is a Master of Architecture candidate recognized as a high-achieving student with a keen design eye. She received an award for excellence in Material Exploration and Expression, reflecting her strengths in spatial thinking, materiality, and creative thinking. With experience at notable interior design firms, Jessie brings a refined design sensibility and an intuitive understanding of interiors to the Poliarchitecture team.
Thalia Hughes Architectural Designer (BAS)
Thalia holds a Bachelor of Architectural Studies and is a Master of Architecture candidate recognized for strong academic performance, including an award for her final comprehensive project in Building Systems Integration. With a keen eye for detail and expertise in drafting and construction detailing, she brings precision, creativity, and dedication to every project at Poliarchitecture.
Wellness
We believe buildings should support both physical and mental wellbeing. Our designs prioritize natural light, clean air, and low-toxicity materials—along with low-carbon strategies and local sourcing. A healthy space should be the baseline, not a luxury.
Efficiency
We see sustainability as inherent to good architecture. From full Passive House projects to simple, cost-effective upgrades, we help clients build smarter, reducing energy use while improving comfort and performance.
Craft
We care deeply about materials, detailing, and design excellence. We pay attention to the details because the small things add up to buildings that feel considered—and buildings that last.
Building Better Together
We’re committed to building not just homes and spaces, but a stronger future for Northern Ontario. Through our projects, teaching, and advocacy, we aim to contribute to a more equitable and inspiring built environment.
Poliarchitecture Inc.
© 2026
info@poliarchitecture.ca
(226) 332-3734
Kantola Rd.
Lively, ON P3Y 1G9
Monday – Friday
8:30 am – 4:30 pm
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Working to grow arts, culture, and community in the North, Poliarchitecture proudly sponsors:
