Bentall Kennedy Office

HOK designed this commercial real estate company’s new offices on the 11th and 12th floors of a downtown Toronto tower to provide a collaborative environment that enhances people’s health, happiness and productivity.

The open plan fosters engagement across departments. Glass-enclosed touchdown spaces and accessible corridors along window walls maximize views and access to daylight. A large café and small community lounges spread across the space encourage spontaneous interaction and create a sense of community. A stairway between the two floors generates a steady buzz of activity in the 11^th-floor entry lobby.

Bentall Kennedy had recently merged with another global firm. Its leaders wanted this new workplace to reflect the company’s Canadian origins. Designers incorporated indigenous oak and locally-produced steel to create a sophisticated, timeless environment. Clean lines and welcoming details are complemented by signature furniture pieces in warm grays and browns, juxtaposed against Modernist furniture.

The team designed the office to meet both WELL and LEED standards.