Our Story

Square One Design has been part of the Cowichan Valley community since the 1980s, making it the longest-running building design and consulting studio in the region. Founded by Michael Ker, the firm earned a reputation for designing over a thousand distinctive homes and commercial spaces across Vancouver Island and beyond.

In 2004, Erin Tett joined the team and worked closely with Michael as his protégé. When he retired in 2015, Erin carried on the studio’s commitment to thoughtful, client-focused design until her own retirement.

Today, Square One Design is led by Alicia Koch, our current Lead Building Designer. Trained by Erin as her protégé, Alicia continues that legacy with a fresh perspective rooted in the same values that have defined our practice for decades—creative, functional design tailored to each client and each site.