Infusing a blend of machinery and nature, this design emerged as the blueprint for a cutting-edge workspace, marking the inaugural Canadian venture for the Japanese tech firm CO-Sol in Toronto. With offices in Tokyo and Fukuoka, CO-Sol envisioned their third location as a manifestation of "authenticity in a new culture."

The 1,000-square-foot office is thoughtfully divided by a bronze-tinted glass wall, creating two distinct sections. The workspace is characterized by an airy, crisp, and minimalist ambiance. A prominent aluminum communal table, built-in shelving, and custom X-shaped fixtures define the space. During the summer, the glass high-rise building façade not only offers a panoramic view but also reflects the greenery of the rooftop within a captivating metallic gradient mural. The flooring, adorned with white-stained cork planks, not only adds a touch of sophistication but also serves as a soft acoustic underlayment throughout the office.

The front office encompasses a common area, library, server room, meeting room, and a cozy kitchen. Rich green tones adorn the walls and ceiling, with a soft green stain on oak millwork extending seamlessly from floor to ceiling. Arch-shaped cubby seating adds an element of comfort and style. The meeting room features chairs in green felt fabric, a live-edge wood table, and light fixtures integrated with various natural plants. The kitchen, distinguished by black veneer cabinetry, counters, and backsplash, complements matching appliances and fixtures, creating a visually appealing shadow box.

As a hub for the Canada-based IT office, specializing in providing 24-hour service to clients in Japan, strategic use of materials such as aluminum, wood, and cork was employed to delineate distinct spaces for the diverse staff. Recognizing the varying work hours, the design creates different atmospheres of warmth and crispness, relaxation and functionality, forging a unique identity that embodies the company's future vision and bridges cultural nuances between Canada and Japan.

Title: CO-Sol: Bridging Cultures in Toronto's IT Oasis
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Use: IT Office
Completion Date: 2019
Photographer: Maxime Brouillet