Exploring the Innovative Design Journey of Cossette’s New Headquarters
In the heart of Montreal, where creativity meets functionality, Cossette, a leading Canadian advertising agency, has embarked on an inspiring transformation of its workspace. Following a temporary stint at WeWork during the pandemic, Cossette, under the banner of its parent company Plus Company, envisioned a dynamic new campus that would not only bring their workforce together but also attract remote employees back to the office. When Shopify vacated a floor at 525 Viger Ouest, the opportunity for reinvention became a reality, and LAAB Architecture was brought on board to craft a workplace that transcends conventional office design.
Rethinking Office Culture
The heart of this ambitious project lay in a shared understanding of user experience (UX) design. Unlike traditional office layouts dictated solely by upper management, the new space was developed around the staff’s experiences and the agency’s collaborative culture. This fresh approach allowed for a layout that naturally flowed from their ethos, fostering creativity and collaboration in every corner of the office.
To ensure the workspace met the diverse needs of its employees, the design team tailored each area to suit various working styles. Some teams thrive in open environments, while others require more private settings, and many benefit from hybrid configurations. By removing the walls that once isolated workplace pods, the design encouraged informal interactions among teams, maximizing access to natural light and stunning views of the city.
Meeting Diverse Needs with Dynamic Spaces
The architects understood the importance of flexibility in today’s work environment. Thus, the design featured an impressive array of meeting room configurations, ranging from intimate spaces for two to expansive rooms accommodating up to twenty people. This versatility enables everything from quiet discussions to brainstorming sessions and collaborative projects.
Moreover, the goal was to create an ambiance that diverged from the stereotypical “playful office” trope, steering clear of swings and other gimmicks. Instead, the focus was on establishing a profound design signature that celebrates Plus Company’s diverse business units while embodying Cossette’s brand ethos of “creative sheen”and “inclusive diversity.”
A Design Inspired by Hospitality and Wellness
To break free from the typical corporate aesthetic, the design team drew inspiration from hospitality and wellness environments. LAAB introduced a sophisticated lighting scheme paired with a dramatic, darker color palette, cultivating a relaxed lounge atmosphere. The carefully designed circulation spaces create an array of lounges, nooks, and meeting areas, facilitating a wide spectrum of tasks and interactions.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a striking reception desk wrapped in a dichroic and mirrored finish. This unique design element shifts in color depending on the viewer’s angle, serving as a subtle homage to Plus Company’s vibrant logo and inclusive culture.
At the heart of this new campus lies the Bistro-Park, a vibrant bistro that acts as a social hub and relaxed workspace, offering breathtaking views of Square Victoria. Strategically positioned at the crossroads of employee movement, this space encourages casual encounters and fosters a sense of community.
A Symphony of Design and Functionality
The design also includes a recording studio hub, a must-visit destination for clients, showcasing a spectrum of studio hues and bright portals signalling “On-Air” status. Moreover, the award-winning Club Cossette pop-up installation has found its new home along the visual axis of McGill, with its curved mirrors reflecting the city’s kinetic energy.
Despite meticulous planning for occupancy scenarios, the response has surpassed expectations, with employees flocking back to the office in record numbers. The only challenge now lies in accommodating the high demand for meeting rooms and seating in the Bistro-Park, a testament to the design’s success.
The Plus Company Campus has emerged as a vibrant, engaging space that captivates visitors and staff alike, enveloping them in a rich tapestry of visual stimulation and creativity. This successful transformation proves that thoughtful office design can significantly enhance business outcomes and defy conventional back-to-office trends.
In essence, the collaboration between Cossette and LAAB has redefined what a modern workspace can be, merging functionality with an inviting atmosphere that celebrates collaboration and creativity in the heart of Montreal.
Photo Courtesy: Raphael Thibodeau & LAAB
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