Concept design and interior decoration projects

With expertise built over 20 years of property management, concept design and execution in residential and corporate settings, GOFA partner John J. O'Brien brings a seasoned eye to meet your needs. He brings a project management and fine arts background, augmented with professional training in interior design education (Ego Interiors) and facilities management (British Columbia Buildings Corporation and Property Services Division, former Ministry of Human Resources & Housing, Province of British Columbia. John later served as Acting Manager, Property Services and Acting Director, Administration overseeing multi-million dollar projects.

John's design for the eleven residential suites within the GOFA portfolio illustrate touches that set these properties apart from the rest. Each has unique features that invite that feeling of home while providing a practical need for efficient use of space. Earlier, designing the decorative approach for our bed & breakfast property involved creative solutions to incorporate modern conveniences in a heritage style.

Asian projects for GOFA owners included three bedroom apartments in Fa Hui (Kowloon) and Tung Chung (Lantau Island) and an expansive four bedroom, four bath retreat with three outdoor terraces along the Chao Praya in Bangkok. Each involved very different lifestyle needs and design challenges.

Commercial experience includes the budget sensitive challenge of incorporating a contemporary, uplifting style into a public sector, limited budget operation in Richmond, B.C. The high-end style included dramatic ten-foot office doors created by recessing the transoms, painted to match the door panel, providing the look without the cost. This project was part of the rejuvenation of an office culture, demonstrating how good design can have affect that goes well beyond cosmetics. Design affects how we experience time spent in the space. It's something to think about in every project.

As a manager with hands-on involvement, John collaborated in planning and design engagements with BC Buildings Corporation on projects for his own locations (three in Victoria, one in Richmond) along with planing administrative facilities for 500 offices province-wide.

Decorator and project consultation work may be structured on a time, project or retainer basis. Please contact us and select "Projects" from the drop down menu and let us know of your situation and interests.