A project integrating the disciplines of interior design, architecture, and engineering, Ædifica designed the workspaces for Bell Zinc Corporation in a reconverted telephone switching station where the installation of a skylight compensates for the lack of fenestration.

Ædifica is responsible for the elaboration of an innovative concept for Bell Zinc Corporation’s workspace, a B2B internet portal. Occupying 18,000 square feet on two floors, the space is tailored for the new breed of e-commerce specialist. The concept marries the worlds of high tech and low tech by creating a harmony between natural elements and the high performance workplace. The harmony created by the mix of natural lighting, the vertical rock garden, and plant materials introduces spirituality into the functional workspace.

Ædifica planned the physical environment to coincide with Bell Zinc’s corporate vision, values, and work processes. Without neglecting the need for functionality, the client required an environment with an attitude that encourages collective creativity.

The space, planned for low disturbance work areas, permits adjacent informal teaming zones, due to the use of movable separators. Walls in open areas house marker boards for ‘on the moment‘ note taking. Closed rooms double as offices and get-away havens. Auxiliary spaces include a library, conference rooms, and a cafeteria complete with a kitchen.

The design concept for the Montreal workplace became the prototype for the Toronto branch.

Awards

Award winner, Sélections Intérieurs 2002 Competition
sponsored by Intérieurs magazine and SIDIM (The Montreal International Interior Design Show)