Best Interior Design Company Toronto | SGH Design Partners

Emerging Trends for 2024 – What we saw at IDS

SGH Design Partners Team — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 13:49:40 +0000

The annual Interior Design Show is the place to be for designers, brands, and lovers of beautiful things to come together and experience the latest trends in interior design and beyond. Exhibitors of all sizes and disciplines showcase their latest developments. The eclectic combination of everything from furniture and textiles to 3D printed ceramics highlights the far reach of the design world.

While the show takes place in downtown Toronto, it hosts products and brands from around the world, blurring the lines between ‘here’ and ‘there’. Products like pottery from India, using traditional materials and techniques, and stone sourced exclusively from Italy and Spain show how an eclectic approach to design can create a harmonious environment. Even incorporating tropical plants, textured textiles, and bright colours can be attributed to an increasing appreciation for international influences. As the world becomes increasingly connected, and our experiences less defined by our geography, our spaces reflect the richness of this growing global culture.

One of the most prevalent trends at this year’s show was a return to natural materials, specifically Canadian wood. Raw and unfished pine, cedar, and maple, as well as particleboard, and live edge pieces were central to many of this year’s exhibits. Their striped down quality highlights the story behind the material, giving it an emotionally charged quality. Unfinished wood also has a distinct scent, creating an almost immersive experience that connects us to the landscape where these products come from. As the design industry continues to focus on sustainability and wellness, this minimalist approach to incorporating nature makes this trend one of the strongest movements in the design industry.

The Interior Design Show always showcases the latest developments in technology for interior environments. This year there was a strong focus on user-centered technology like app controlled coloured lights and opacity changing glass. Their programmable nature allows users to create unique scenes that completely customize their environment. The success of immersive art and exhibits worldwide has pushed the design world to increase the scale and capability of interior technology. Large LED screens displaying lifelike scenes can be mounted on virtually any surface, allowing users to create their own immersive gallery experience. The user-friendly nature of these experiences makes creating complex and dynamic environments more accessible to everyday users.

Trends can feel like cause and effect. The increasing use of bright, saturated colours used monochromatically throughout a space feels like a counter movement to the pastels and achromatic palettes of previous years. Elements like statement walls painted in a vibrant hue, or a richly coloured piece of statement furniture can add an element of confidence and personality to a space. While soft pastels and creamy palettes are still very popular, dramatic colour is one of this year’s biggest new trends.

As designers, we have a responsibility to the people who use our spaces, their communities, and the environment. Some of the most prominent narratives at the IDS were many social issues facing Toronto and the global design world. Conceptual projects that address issues like the housing crisis, ageing in place, and the climate crisis were some of the most powerful displays at this year’s IDS. These exhibitors remind us how impactful our work can be, and, because of this, that we have a responsibility to more than our clients. These projects go beyond current trends to unite us through our shared humanity.

The post Emerging Trends for 2024 – What we saw at IDS appeared first on SGH DESIGN PARTNERS.

Three Reasons Why It May Be Time To Re-imagine Your Office Space

SGH Design Partners Team — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 06:47:27 +0000

New year new space?

Three reasons why it may be time to re-imagine your office space

Growth

Have you experienced substantial growth? Now may be the time to consider updating your space to accommodate your new and growing needs. SGH works with many clients prior to lease negotiations to ensure the most efficient use of space that best supports how you will work now and into the future. Location, budget, program analysis, design, furniture, and technology all play a critical role in the overall success. Strategic design drives your project forward with clear goals before the lease is signed.

Functionality

Have your workplace needs shifted and you’re finding they no longer accommodate the needs of your team? Through our envisioning process, SGH will guide you with confidence in establishing your programmatic requirements, team needs, and workplace cultural expectations. From there we can design and develop a space that is tailored to your functional needs and company culture. We understand your workplace is an extension of your mission, values and culture. It connects people and place. SGH brings incredible value through years of experience, research and strategy. We look at all the critical details to ensure the result provides you and your people the very best experience. As workplaces continue to evolve, design continues to be a catalyst for great opportunities.

Reducing Space

Have you recently reduced your footprint and are looking to adjust your space to fit your new needs? SGH can assist in space planning and test-fitting, helping to guide you on how to best utilize your space to accommodate these changes. SGH is here to support you. We start by understanding your existing and new needs to build a foundation that allows for a seamless transition from design to implementation.

Have a question about how SGH can help you in the pre-lease stage. Contact us today!

The post Three Reasons Why It May Be Time To Re-imagine Your Office Space appeared first on SGH DESIGN PARTNERS.

The Emergence of Space as a Service Business

SGH Design Partners Team — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:22:44 +0000

The shift to hybrid work and the general movement away from 1:1 seating and working in the office 5 days a week has resulted in organizations opting for less space. Buildings in prime locations, close to public transportation, with quick access to great amenities, and services are still holding a healthy tenant base. Buildings that have less of these immediate services are looking to up their game and are considering innovative solutions to get back great tenants.

Space-as-a-Service

Space-as-a-Service businesses provide flexible work environments that are leased on an as needed basis. The concept was normalized by companies like WeWork, Regus, and SPACES who focused on flexible, vibrant, and youthful coworking spaces. The concept has since matured, and more Space-as-a-Service businesses are emerging, looking to offer a wider variety of coworking experiences. They carefully review local business needs, customers and location.

Future of Space-as-a-Service

SGH worked with ModSpace Atlantic, to convert 3 existing vacant spaces they owned, into a fully flexible workplace that offers premium features, services, IT and security. Their goal was to create an “elevated, contemporary and light-filled” space that caters to evolving workplace needs and provides a truly inviting workplace experience. Space as a Service does two great things; provide desirable, alternative solutions for people and organizations who do not want to take on the risk of long-term leases and they are revitalizing existing spaces, that were otherwise sitting empty, which helps to keep buildings and neighbourhoods vital places.

An increasing division between good and not great real estate is increasing, as Class A buildings, in prime locations continue to keep tenants but with Class B and C buildings starting to empty out impacting both property value and neighbourhood vibrancy. Space as a Service provides an ideal workspace with attractive services, comfort, and functionality in alternative locations where this likely does not exist, meeting a new demand.

The post The Emergence of Space as a Service Business appeared first on SGH DESIGN PARTNERS.

Behind the Scenes of Designing: Modspace

SGH Design Partners Team — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 04:12:10 +0000

Modspace provides a flexible and modern co-working experience in the Halifax Regional Municipality. Their spaces offer their members bright offices, modern meeting rooms, and dedicated desks, with options to suit every need.

Modspace retained SGH for their Dartmouth location on the corner of Highway 111 and Burnside Drive. The elevated design and careful attention to detail provide a unique environment for their members. Shared amenities such as the meeting rooms, lunchroom, document services, and breakout spaces ensure that its use is inviting for those who work in and visit the space. Their new space sets the standard of co-working spaces high.

The post Behind the Scenes of Designing: Modspace appeared first on SGH DESIGN PARTNERS.

Behind the Scenes of Designing: Kearney

SGH Design Partners Team — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 04:58:13 +0000

Engaged early in the process, SGH worked to assist Kearney in the decision-making process to determine the best solution for their future needs surrounding their Toronto office location. SGH conducted space studies for multiple locations including their current space which uncovered a relocation that was best suited for their evolving business needs.

With many of their staff consulting with clients off-site during the week, the office was designed as a hub to come together. Kearney adopted a model of unassigned seating, with large collaboration zones and enclosed spaces for virtual collaboration. Most importantly, the design of the new office brought together a large multipurpose room for all staff meetings which can be opened to the café to allow for organic movement between the two spaces and provides space to accommodate the entire team to foster culture and connection. This same space can also work as an enclosed meeting area for staff to utilize for more focused meetings. The café serves as an informal reception with bright colors, local artwork, and the incorporation of biophilia create a welcoming space that people want to come to.

The post Behind the Scenes of Designing: Kearney appeared first on SGH DESIGN PARTNERS.

Maximizing Small Spaces

SGH Design Partners Team — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 07:10:55 +0000

Downsizing has become a popular strategy for many companies in the current business environment. With new hybrid work models emerging many companies are opting to reduce space and reevaluate how their workplace should function. In this article, we will explore why partnering with a design firm during the downsizing process is a valuable investment.

In the past, downsizing was negatively associated with densification, however, there has been a significant shift in mindset that is impacting how spaces are being planned and there is no one right answer. Whatever your reason for downsizing, it is the ideal opportunity to align long-range business goals with real estate, operational costs and understand the best way to support your employees. An experienced design team will guide this process strategically from start to completion to ensure your have a space that will work for you.

When downsizing, it’s crucial to strategize for the future. How will your real estate accommodate shifting requirements? A strategic design process considers how you need to work, determines optimum use of square footage, understands constructability factors, and creates flexible solutions that align with your goals and objectives. This approach will save time, costs, and ensure your space will function well into the future.

A strategic design partner incorporates your values, brand, and vision to create a space that reflects an authentic image that will have a profoundly positive impact on employee engagement and sense of belonging. A wholistic strategy will also address diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and sustainability initiatives that are fundamental today.

A design firm offers more than just aesthetics. When moving into a new space it’s essential to look at the function of the space including acoustics, lighting, privacy, community spaces, and technology integration. These factors play an important role in employee satisfaction, collaboration, productivity, and enjoyment of being in office.

Downsizing doesn’t mean compromising on design or efficiency. By consulting with a design firm, you can strategically navigate the downsizing process and create an office space that meets your current needs while accommodating future growth. From strategic planning to furniture selection and technology integration, a design firm brings expertise and experience to the table. The result is a timeless and truly inspired workplace.

The post Maximizing Small Spaces appeared first on SGH DESIGN PARTNERS.

Behind the Scenes of Designing: Syngenta

SGH Design Partners Team — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 06:44:39 +0000

Syngenta Canada underwent a full renovation to re-imagine their way of working in their existing office in Guelph. Syngenta occupies a the entire building, which consist of a mix of open workstations, offices, meeting rooms and large flexible space that provide choice of setting.

Through the course of this project, Syngenta began their movement to a new model of working with a combination of assigned and unassigned workspaces for their team members. Their vision for the new space included a large reception, which is adjacent to a large multipurpose space with an operable wall.

The end result is a beautiful space inspired by their surrounding landscapes. Embracing organic shapes, earthly tones and flexible work settings brought this beautiful space to life. The office includes flexible work areas that support a reconfiguring environment for a variety of functions including all-hands meetings or events, dedicated work zones, cafe, and calming reception.

The post Behind the Scenes of Designing: Syngenta appeared first on SGH DESIGN PARTNERS.

Envision The Future Of Workplace Planning for your Future

SGH Design Partners Team — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 06:02:23 +0000

Is your workplace ready for the future? SGH’s Envision design strategy gets you there.

We have discussed in some previous blogs our 3 tier model when it comes to our Envision Strategy.

Tier One: Planning for Now
Tier Two: Planning for Transition
Tier Three: Planning for the Future

So, what exactly goes into each of these tiers and how do we work with you to help guide you to the best outcome for your individual needs? Let’s break it down a bit more starting with Tier One: Planning for NOW.

Tier One: Planning for Now

During this Tier SGH will meet with you with the intention to review your expectations when it comes to what you your existing space currently looks like. We want to understand how your workplace culture is currently working and start to uncover your unique key objectives and drivers that will direct our path for design.

We will use space planning analysis, test fits and engage you in thought starting presentations to establish clear visual solutions that champion your internal decision-making process.

From here we will begin Tier Two: Planning for Transition.

Tier Two: Planning for Transition

Planning for transition is in continuum to Tier One. This Tier kicks off with an interactive workshop that ushers in all the critical information we need to get down to the nitty gritty of how you plan to continue to work as you enter this transition into a new way of work.

This important session encourages open conversation with leadership regarding workplace must haves, culture and brand, long view goals, and building a defined set of guiding principles that will in turn guide our design process.

From here we will begin third and final tier: Planning for the Future.

Tier Three: Planning for the Future

Now is our third and final tier within our strategy which brings us to our initial plan for how your workplace will look and feel in the future!

This transformational phase of our envision strategy will embrace change because change is more successful when you engage those it will most impact.

Tier Three includes reaching out to key stakeholders, managers and employees through surveys, questionnaires, and interactive workshops. The results create a strategic framework and communication strategy that will drive your project forward in a positive inclusive direction.

SGH has used this three tier strategy across the country, servicing many different companies with different working styles, size and location with huge success. Planning for what is needed now, will be needed for the transition and what will be needed in the future. With these three tiers we have been able to successfully transition our clients into planning for their future of work.

The post Envision The Future Of Workplace Planning for your Future appeared first on SGH DESIGN PARTNERS.

Story Time, Behind the Scenes of Designing Conuma Coal Vancouver, British Columbia

SGH Design Partners Team — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 05:34:23 +0000

Conuma Coal is a steelmaking coal producer that is based in Northeast British Columbia. They are an integral part of the global steek supply chain and produce high quality steelmaking coal for leading global steelmakers. They integrate economic, environmental, and social principles to create sustainable value for their employees, business partners and the communities where they operate

SGH was retained by this coal producer for the design of their 35,000 sq.ft. new space located in downtown Vancouver. The new location embraces the company’s corporate identity throughout and uses bold color and sleek modern finishings in the design elements.

The elegant design is set against the stunning backdrop of the Vancouver harbor front. Looking for a spaced designed on an economical scale but high on creativity; Conuma Coal was looking for a new design with a ‘specific flair’.

The client was very satisfied with the overall look of the finished space, timing to completion and team process. This project was written up in Business in Vancouver in August 2017.

The post Story Time, Behind the Scenes of Designing Conuma Coal Vancouver, British Columbia appeared first on SGH DESIGN PARTNERS.

SGH’s 5 Main Sectors of Workplace Design

SGH Design Partners Team — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 05:08:35 +0000

For over three decades SGH has been delivering transformative business environments and unparalleled service. We specialize in “Workplace Design Solutions” with a focus in five major sectors : Financial Services, Technology, Consumer Brand, Professional Services and Legal.

Our three studios across Canada, complement of over 30 talented designers, are ideally sized to respond to projects of all scales and complexities. We are well versed and trained in international trends and incorporate that knowledge into our design development. Our commercial and office interior design studio is based on innovative thinking, collaborative approaches supported by an open environment allowing creativity to reach its highest levels.

With each sector comes a new client with unique design feature requirements. Over our 35 years of experience, we have fine-tuned our expertise in each business sector. After carefully listening to our clients, we create a solution-based approach based on our Envision Strategy. A hallmark of SGH’s work is the level of personal attention and involvement of the leadership team in all projects. Our clients value the agility of the SGH team and our ability to respond to schedule and budget challenges with fresh and innovative solutions.

At SGH our methodology is simple, and we break it down into three keywords. Culture. Care. Create.

Culture. We are here to understand who you are and how your workplace functions best.

Care. At SGH Design Partners we listen to your needs and help guide you towards a design solution custom to you.

Create. SGH is proud to design transformative environments for our clients across Canada and we are grateful to work alongside our partners in this industry to continue building the workplaces of the future.

The post SGH’s 5 Main Sectors of Workplace Design appeared first on SGH DESIGN PARTNERS.