About Us

Live, Work, and Play in the Place of Your Dreams

Greenplan is a design and planning firm dedicated to creating spaces that balance functionality, comfort, and client vision. With decades of experience and over 1000 completed projects, we bring creativity, technical expertise, and thoughtful attention to every project we take on.

Our Story

Since our first project in 1985, Greenplan has grown into one of Vancouver Island's most trusted design and planning firms. Our journey has always been guided by a simple principle: thoughtful design improves the way people live, work, and interact with their spaces.

Over the years, we have completed hundreds of residential and commercial projects, navigating complex jurisdictions across Vancouver Island and beyond. Every project is approached with care, combining creativity and technical expertise to deliver spaces that are both practical and inspiring, built to last. We focus on the client’s goals at every step—balancing functionality, aesthetics, and budget—while ensuring that the process is smooth, collaborative, and enjoyable.

At Greenplan, we believe that great design is more than a plan on paper; it’s a process that brings visions to life, creating lasting value for the people and communities we serve.

What's In A Name?

The name Greenplan reflects both our origins and our values. When the company was first created, the focus was on promoting sustainable and alternative building practices—approaches that were innovative for their time and remain essential today. We championed materials like JBF, Hempcrete, and ICF, encouraged clients to prepare for solar energy with solar-ready trusses, and supported rainwater harvesting systems through cisterns and site planning. Our designs have always been guided by natural principles, such as siting projects to capture winter sun while minimizing summer heat, integrating passive solar heating and cooling, and exploring rooftop decks or sunrooms that allow homeowners to grow their own food.

Sustainability Today

Although sustainability is not our primary specialization today, it continues to play an important role in what we do. We offer a full range of green building services for clients who wish to integrate them, from preparing for future solar panels to incorporating passive design strategies and resilient systems. Our goal is to provide flexibility—whether clients want to build with conventional methods, fully embrace alternative building practices, or find a balance between the two.

More Than A Name

Beyond the literal use of “green,” the name also speaks to our philosophy: fresh thinking, responsible planning, and building with the future in mind. Greenplan represents the balance between creativity and practicality—designing spaces that are not only functional and beautiful, but also thoughtfully planned to support how people live, both today and for years to come.

Meet the Team

Jack Anderson

Founder, Recently Retired

For over 30 years, I’ve championed sustainable approaches to homes and communities. A fifth-generation Nanaimo resident with a background in architecture, urban planning, and ecological community design, I’ve spent two decades working with provincial and local governments—including the City of Nanaimo’s first Planning Department and the Regional District’s Building Inspection and Planning teams. Since designing my first passive solar home in 1985, my team and I at Greenplan have completed more than 600 residential and commercial projects across Vancouver Island, all driven by my passion for creating green, sustainable communities.

Keene Anderson

Planner & Home Designer

As the eldest of Greenplan Founder Jack Anderson’s three sons, I grew up deeply influenced by my dad’s passion for design and sustainability. I graduated from Vancouver Island University’s BBA program in 2009, concentrating in both Economics and Finance, and later earned my Permaculture Design Certificate from OUR Ecovillage the same year. I primarily work in Revit but am also proficient in SketchUp and Photoshop. Outside the office, I’m an avid fisherman and kayaker — most often found with a fly rod and paddle in hand, or off on an adventure with my two sons.

Barry Anderson

Office Guard Dog and Therapist

Barry is Greenplan’s big, fluffy black dog and beloved office companion. Always ready for an adventure, he loves catching frisbees, going fishing with his dad and two brothers, and meeting new friends along the way. Known for his ever-wagging tail and gentle spirit, Barry keeps a close eye on the office as our loyal guard dog, making sure everyone feels welcome and safe.

Janet LeBlanc

Home Designer

Hi, I’m Janet — a Designer at Greenplan with a background in both Business Administration and Architectural Design & Technology. Since joining the team, I’ve become well-versed in navigating jurisdictions across Vancouver Island, applying that knowledge to ensure each project runs smoothly. My design philosophy focuses on balancing functionality, aesthetics, and budget, crafting thoughtful solutions tailored to each client’s needs. I approach every project as if it were my own, blending technical precision with creative vision to deliver practical, beautiful results. Outside of work, I’m passionate about playing competitive soccer, exploring the outdoors in summer, and unwinding with a great book.

Nick Eberling

Interior Designer - Student

My name is Nick Eberling! I grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba, but my passion for design brought me to Vancouver Island in 2022, where I'm currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Interior Design at Vancouver Island University. I'm an outgoing person who thrives on adventure and the outdoors, whether it's hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, or snowboarding. My approach to design reflects my appreciation for nature and my dedication to creating spaces that inspire and connect people.

* Photo coming soon!

Lam Nguyen

Interior Designer - Student

Hi, I'm Lam Nguyen! Born and raised on Vancouver Island, nature has always been deeply rooted in my life, reflecting in my design decisions. Currently, I am finishing my studies at Vancouver Island University, where I have already completed the Interior Design program. I've always been someone who loves to create -- whether it be my own personal artwork, or commissions for others, I'm most definitely spending my time doing something artistic. Being able to express thoughts and ideas is one of the best parts about being both an artist and a designer, and I aspire to be able to help bring others' visions into fruition too!

* Photo coming soon!

Acknowledgements

We respectfully acknowledge and honor the traditional territories of the Snuneymuxw, Snaw-Naw-As, Quw’utsun, and Tla’amin peoples. We are grateful to live, learn, and work on these lands, and we value the relationships we’ve built with the Nations over the years. In our work, we collaborate closely with community leaders to ensure each project runs smoothly, respects local values, and supports positive outcomes for everyone involved.