The project scope required the renovation to a 35,400 sf office space that was needed to support 180 full-time employees who work in multiple departments within the Branch. The Program for the new office consisted primarily of open office workspaces, office support spaces, collaborative areas, and laboratory spaces. A Weather Forecasting Station was also part of the Program and was required to operate 24/7 as it provides Prediction Services to the Prairie Region.

The design of the new office took maximum advantage of the existing window locations through the careful arrangement of the open office area. Workstations and open collaborative spaces were prioritized in close proximity to windows to ensure the maximum light penetration into the office.

The physical location of the building in the downtown core hinders the amount of natural light entering the office. To address this concern, a custom-designed ceiling system was developed using undulating felt baffles, suspended below an arrangement of LED lighting. The ceiling undulations and reflection of light through the baffles create an ephemeral glow, mimicking a natural light source. The design for the ceiling contours was derived from local topography and the two rivers that flow through the downtown area. This homage to the local landscape instills a sense of place in the office design.

Light-coloured finishes, combined with honest materials such as natural woods, soft wool felt, and local stone, provide a warm colour palette throughout the office. Overall materials and elements were selected that promote Biophilia; Patterns and textures found within the local flora and fauna were strategically applied to the carpet, wall murals, upholstery, and partitions. Carpet tile was specified to mimic grass, moss and lichen while murals were abstracted to reference tree patterns and earthy textures. Partitions exude the order and grids found within the urban fabric and are offset by punches of bright greens, and chartreuse to help juxtapose the muted tones.

Client: Environment & Climate Change Canada

Type: Commercial, Interior Design

Construction Value: Undisclosed

Date of Completion: February 2023

Area: 35,400 sq.ft. (3,289 s.m.)

Consultant Team

Prime Consultant: 1x1 architecture inc.

Structural: Crosier Kilgour & Partners Ltd.

Mechanical: Epp Siepman Engineering Inc.

Electrical: Epp Siepman Engineering Inc.

Photography: Lisa Stinner-Kun

Filed under Commercial Interior Design

Environment & Climate Change Canada

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