The mandate given to Folio Design was to completely revise the company's way of working. The objective: to foster a strong sense of belonging among employees and clients. The result: a complete and tangible reform of the company's visual identity combining design and branding. An imposing and timeless materiality was brought to the forefront: black (strength), concrete (innovation), and wood (wealth) mark the pillars of a brand well anchored in its spaces. The integration of customized lighting, under the theme of accounting, punctuates the space. The multifunctional space in the client area also allows for exchanges between users in a relaxed setting, reflecting the values of this company.
Design challenge
We needed to redefine the classic vision of an accountant's office and integrate an innovative design approach. An in-depth analysis of the use of private and public spaces was carried out. Individual private offices were reduced to a minimum and acoustic comfort was an important issue for this project. One of the most important challenges was to maintain the privacy of the clients by consulting while providing them with a differentexperience. We wanted to offer added value for both employees and clients. In addition, the space was meant to be a place to gather, share and network. The client zone had to be easily reconfigurable to hold events of any type, even in the evening. The client wanted to position itself as an employer of choice and promote a corporate culture of openness and well-being. The design had to create an unforgettable experience for all users, while respecting a defined budget. The layout and design choices had to be carefully thought out.
Design approach
We first worked closely with the client to establish the new standard of layout and rethink the elements as a given in accounting offices. We based our analysis on 3 main elements: efficiency, layout, management of confidential spaces and integration of a new lifestyle. The overall objective of the project was to create a signature space reflecting their new reality, without sacrificing user comfort. The 2-storey building allowed us to easily separate private and public uses. Client functions and common areas were arranged on the 1st floor to avoid unnecessary circulation in the open spaces. Noise and distractions could be kept to a minimum for concentration tasks. In order to enhance exchanges between customers and staff, a collaborative kitchen area was placed near the customer area. Since openness, human relations and availability are part of the company's values, this special type of organization was entirely appropriate. Since we are working in a new building, we had few constraints related to mechanical systems or access to the water points, these factors offered us greater flexibility in implementation for our concept. We valued the use of exposed ceilings to have as much clear height as possible and create a sense of grandeur and openness. Access to natural light was made available to all employees in direct view. We quickly determined that there had to be a strong link between the building's architecture, the new corporate image and the interior design to create a distinctive signature project.
Solution
White has been used for most other surfaces to bond the materials together and provide a bright space. A small touch of orange was integrated at strategic points in the space to create visual cues at specific points. Glass sections were installed for the office facades both for the diffusion of natural light and for the feeling of availability to other team members that it inspires. For acoustic reasons, carpeted areas were favoured. Only the circulation and common areas are made of concrete. The integration of wood slats allows for privacy zones in key areas. Great attention has also been paid to the storage of boxes that clients deposit for accounting purposes. A wooden structure at the reception area allows for the concealment of all packages and keeps the space welcoming.
Innovation
Our layout proposal was audacious since the accent of the space was put on the accessibility of the customers. The kitchen was strategically positioned near the reception area, so we always feel welcome when we are walking into the offce. Customized mobile furniture also allows the space to be easily reconfigured for an event or training. The wide opening promotes friendly interactions with other visitors and the feeling of trust that the space brings us is comforting. A coffee and refreshment bar with a glass roof is set up directly in the client lounge area, one feels more at home in a small bistro café than in a traditional waiting room. The general spirit of the project, the values and the concept contrast with the typical environments of accounting and tax firms. Despite the fact that the majority of users had to say goodbye to their closed offices, the new spaces do not affect performance and employees are delighted with their new living spaces. In addition to having improved their daily work environment, the benefits of the layout are also being felt in terms of social activities and interaction between colleagues. One of management's wishes was to provide a rewarding, state-of-the-art work environment in order to recruit new talent for their growing company. Mission accomplished, as within a month of the opening of the new offices, candidates were already knocking on their doors.
