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.

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.

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 relocation to 100 Queens Quay East doubled the Toronto Region Board of Trade’s footprint opening exciting opportunities. The new location offers an expanded iconic space with a beautiful terrace to refresh the event experience.  Establishing control over the use of public event space brought valuable gain for their own business goals, demonstrating a competitive and vital edge.  This destination space connects businesses to the programs, partners, and people they need to succeed in their organizations mission. It has enriched and opened its doors to a new up-and-coming city core community embracing its diverse and growing ecosystem.  It brings people together to work in a welcoming, flexible environment where seamless technology is integrated, easy to use and adaptable.  It is a place for building relationships with other business members, peers, mentors, and potential partners. Social interaction is proven to build bridges and opportunities, all encouraged in the variety of casual lounges, café or refresh spaces, outdoor terrace, and meeting spaces. The downtown location is accessible and in line with their mission to make Toronto one of the most competitive and sought after business regions in the world.

The understated approach to event hub on the third floor provides a modern, inspiring, backdrop with a full catering kitchen operated in trust by Oliver & Bonacini. It addressed all the design challenges they put forward – able to set up easily for: board meetings, training, lectures, media broadcasts, hosting cocktail parties, event spaces and many other kinds of functions.  It is designed for flexibility at its core.

The 16th floor work-space has brought employees back together, to collaborate, socialize and get a much-needed break from home office locations.  It is designed with purpose and integrity to support the people who make it a success.  It provides an ergonomic, healthy environment that staff and members can work in safely and comfortably.  It offers the right mix of activity-based spaces

It remained resilient and sustainable through a world health crisis, taking the lessons learned to heart to make it an even better space for everyone.  The outdoor terrace has been a fantastic value add with direct access to nature, sunshine, and the fresh waterfront breeze.  The open hearted and diverse spirit of Toronto is curated in the accessories, art, graphics, and furniture all carefully selected to elevate the end user experience.  It has wowed staff, visitors, and members alike.

Informed

A strategic design approach aligns how you work with your objectives and real estate. It ensures the most efficient use of space to best support how you will work now and into the future. Furniture, technology, budget, scheduling, location all plays a critical role in the overall success. Strategic design drives your project forward with clear goals before you sign a lease.

Connected

Your workspace is an extension of your mission, values, and culture. It connects your people to your place. SGH brings incredible value through years of experience, research, and strategy. We look at all the critical details to ensure the end result provides you and your people the very best experience. As workplaces continue to evolve, design continues to be a catalyst for great opportunities.

Trusted

SGH understands real estate is an important and expensive business transition. We also have a deep understanding of how space impacts the health and well-being of people. Building a foundation of trust early on provides a seamless transition into implementation. As your trusted advisor, we drive the design forward on your behalf, ensuring your goals are realized. Is the difference between something that is just okay or something that is truly magnificent.

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