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AT Office

Montréal, Canada

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located in Montréal, Canada
completed in 2016

The project is the fit-out of an office space that is meant to accommodate fifty employees of a transportation company.
The architectural concept stands on two factors: the internal operation of the company and the short time of construction. However, the development meets several criteria (I.e. functionality, occupants’ comfort, environmental design) and reflects the company's philosophy.
Functionally, the design is based on a concentric scheme that facilitates circulation and makes use of space in an effective fashion: closed spaces are located in periphery while open space office is in centre. The open space is flooded with natural light through generous windows. In addition to traditional functions, the fit-out contains a space for relaxation and entertainment, which allows employees to work and meet outside the areas designed for this purpose: at table in the dining room, in armchairs watching TV or at counters that separate these spaces from the open office.
The choice of materials is simple: wood in form of plywood and OSB as well as glass. The resulting image is consistent with the carrier’s philosophy of openness, simplicity and transparency in addition to creating a warm, relaxed and cheerful working environment. Beside the OSB rough surfaces, sliding doors contribute to the 'cargo' character of space. In contrast with the simplicity of the materials, other elements eliminate any ambiguity about the role of the space. While the light in the background can change colour according to the mood of the occupants, the white office furniture stands out against the brownish surfaces. The offices borrow the names of the North American cities that are most frequented by the carrier. The counters and reception desk, made of plywood on a CNC machine, evoke traditional Romanian patterns.
Finally, the fit-out is fully dismantable and can be easily modified. Upon departure of the carrier, most of the components can be reused, recycled or simply reintegrated into the natural cycle through bio-degradation.