David Poiron is a founding principal of Checkwitch Poiron Architects and one of Vancouver Island’s most experienced and trusted architectural leaders. With more than 37 years of professional experience, David has built a reputation for delivering thoughtful, technically rigorous, and highly buildable architecture across civic, institutional, transportation, healthcare, commercial, residential, and mixed-use sectors throughout British Columbia.

Known for his calm leadership, deep technical knowledge, and problem-solving ability, David is often the steady hand guiding complex projects from early concept through approvals, construction, and occupancy. Clients and consultant teams rely on him for his ability to navigate competing priorities, resolve technical and regulatory challenges, and keep projects moving with clarity and precision. His experience spans every aspect of architectural practice, including design leadership, contract administration, technical detailing, master planning and project management. He is highly regarded for his expertise in CAD systems and advanced database systems that support operations and efficient project delivery.

Before co-founding CPA in 2012, David operated his own successful practice for a decade, building a portfolio of widely recognized projects across Vancouver Island and British Columbia. His work reflects a consistent balance of practical intelligence, contextual sensitivity, and enduring design quality.

At CPA, David has led many of the firm’s most significant and award-winning projects, including the Nanaimo Airport Terminal Expansion, Cowichan Hospice House, St. Paul’s Centre for Ministry and Community Service, and the Madill Office + Warehouse development. His architecture is grounded in functionality and technical excellence, while remaining deeply attentive to human experience and long-term value.

Beyond practice, David has contributed meaningfully to the profession through advisory and leadership roles, including serving on the 2016 RAIC National Architectural Conference Committee and the City of Nanaimo’s Joint Building Permit Advisory Working Group. His longstanding commitment to mentorship, innovation, and the advancement of practice continues to shape both CPA and the broader architectural community in British Columbia.

Selected Projects

Nanaimo Airport Terminal Expansion

Nanaimo Cruise Ship Terminal

Cowichan Hospice House

St. Paul’s Centre for Ministry + Community Service

Madill Office + Warehouse

Lewkowich Office + Laboratory

Edgewater Apartments

Cairnsmore Care Facility

Salt Spring Island Wellness Centre

Professional Recognition

• Architect AIBC
• University Gold Medal — University of Manitoba, Bachelor of Environmental Studies
• Member — 2016 RAIC National Architectural Conference Committee
• Current Member — Joint Building Permit Advisory Working Group, City of Nanaimo

Awards

• Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia Award — Nanaimo Airport Terminal Expansion
• North American Wood Design Award — Nanaimo Cruise Ship Terminal
• Canadian Wood WORKS! Award — Best Commercial Wood Design — Nanaimo Cruise Ship Terminal
• WAN (World Architecture News) Awards — Transport Category Long List — Nanaimo Cruise Ship Terminal
• Glass Magazine Award — Most Innovative Curtain Wall — Nanaimo Cruise Ship Terminal
• Shaw Contract Design Is… Award — Nanaimo Cruise Ship Terminal
• VIREB Award of Excellence — St. Paul’s Centre for Ministry + Community Service
• VIREB Judge’s Choice Award — St. Paul’s Centre for Ministry + Community Service
• City of Nanaimo Award for Design Excellence — Edgewater Apartments

Publications & Media Features

• Canadian Architect — Nanaimo Cruise Ship Terminal
• Award Magazine — Nanaimo Cruise Ship Terminal
• Shaw Contract Group Design Is… Publication
• Svenskt Trä! (Swedish Wood Magazine)
• Various regional and national architectural publications featuring CPA transportation and civic work
• YAM Magazine — Double High House