Structural engineering often thrives in the background, unseen, unappreciated, yet essential. In Southern Ontario, VanBoxmeer & Stranges Structural Engineers (VB&S) has spent the past 30 years ensuring that architectural visions stand strong and endure. From high-rise residential towers to complex institutional facilities, VB&S has earned a reputation for innovation, design excellence, and unwavering dedication.
From Fairways to Foundations
The foundation of VB&S was laid in 1994, not in a traditional office setting, but on the 12th hole of the Ingersoll Golf and Country Club. Confronted with job uncertainty during the early 1990s recession, Rick Stranges and Gary VanBoxmeer decided to take control of their careers. Rather than wait for inevitable layoffs at the company they were working for, they chose to embark on the entrepreneurial path in lieu of collecting unemployment and waiting for another job.
“I remember we both drove the ball down the middle on #12 fairway. The first time we were both in the middle on the same hole,” says Stranges. “It was then while walking to our ball that we talked about our plans after we get laid off. Gary had the idea of starting his own business. I asked if he was interested, we could do something together. After a couple of weeks, it was decided to start our own consulting firm”
Pioneering Projects and Milestones
From the outset, VB&S prioritized quality, being thorough in its designs and drawings, and client trust. Their first major project, Fire Station #5, paved the way for subsequent milestones, such as Mother Teresa Catholic High School and Western University’s Bio-Tron Research Building and MacKay-Lassonde Pavillion—early projects that laid the groundwork for even more ambitious undertakings.
A pivotal moment, one of many for the firm, came with the completion of the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics at Wilfrid Laurier University. “That project was transformative,” Stranges says. “Receiving a national award from Canadian Consulting Engineers underscored our ability to manage high-profile, complex projects and to compete with the largest structural engineers in the Country. Being compared to some of the best engineers is satisfying after decades of hard work. We knew what we were capable of, and it is nice to be considered”
A Philosophy of Embracing Challenges
The key to VB&S’s enduring success lies in their commitment to trust—trust in their analysis/designs, their team, and their processes. “Some clients tell us, ‘You never say no,’” says Stranges. “When you can see the forces in your head and how they get to the foundation, have confidence in your design and your expertise, there’s seldom a reason to say no.”
This philosophy has solidified VB&S’s reputation for delivering designs that are both practical and cost-effective. Whether handling high-rise residential towers or expansive institutional facilities, the firm’s consistent approach ensures every project receives the same level of dedication and precision.
Engineering Complex Structures
Among the firm’s most challenging endeavors was the Lazaridis School project. “One of the many design challenges on that project, features a drum-shaped structure that appears to float,” says Stranges. “It houses a two-level classroom and required design tolerances within 5mm.” The project also features a glass-domed roof, the largest unsupported structure of its kind in Canada at the time, underscoring VB&S’s capacity for innovative problem-solving.
“There is immense satisfaction in overcoming such challenges,” says Stranges. “Passing by these completed structures and knowing we played a role in their realization is deeply rewarding.”
Commitment to Sustainable Design
Sustainability is a core consideration in VB&S’s work, reflecting an awareness of future environmental challenges. “Sustainability requires a committed client and team,” says Stranges. “Our role is to integrate recycled materials, low-carbon cements, and innovative aggregates into the design process.” Clients like Sifton Properties are leaders in Net-Zero sustainability like their West 5 development in west London. “We’ve been fortunate to work on most of the larger West 5 buildings, if not all” says Stranges.
The firm is also working emerging solutions like mass timber and prefabricated wall panels to continue their work with sustainable materials, reduce waste and accelerate construction timelines. VB&S’s approach is tailored to meet the unique sustainability goals of each project.
Educating Clients and Building Partnerships
VB&S believes that informed clients make better decisions. “An educated client appreciates that cost is just one factor,” says Stranges. “Durability, life-cycle costs, and functionality are equally critical.” By fostering transparency and understanding, VB&S builds lasting partnerships grounded in mutual trust.
Looking ahead, Rick anticipates that technology, particularly artificial intelligence, will play a more prominent role in structural engineering. “Western University is already incorporating AI into its engineering curriculum,” he notes. “But for now, human expertise remains irreplaceable.”
Despite technological advancements, VB&S’s commitment to quality remains steadfast. “I hope that years from now, a young engineer will look at our designs and drawings, and recognize the care and precision that went into them, just like I did when I was younger,” says Stranges.
A Legacy of Excellence
After 30 years, VanBoxmeer and Stranges’ dedication to structural engineering continues to drive VB&S forward. They are not merely structural consultants; they are shaping a legacy of innovation, quality, and trust. Stranges jokes, “We hope to walk through these beautiful buildings one day and show our grandkids —if they can look up from their phones long enough—and hopefully be impressed.”
From a golf course conversation to award-winning projects, VanBoxmeer & Stranges Structural Engineers exemplifies what can be achieved with vision, determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
For more information please visit www.vbands.com
