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142 Westmount
Discipline : Architecture
Categories : Commercial Building / Mixed-Use Building : Gold Certification
Occupying a corner site, a century-old, mixed-use 3 storey building was in decline from more than a decade of neglect. The building now houses two upper floors of office spaces including a design studio and a coworking space for creative professionals, with streetfront spaces occupied by a marketing agency and an independent coffee shop. Suggestive of the creative inhabitants working within, the two primary elevations activate the streetscape with bold and playful graphics; painted drop shadows surrounding the windows create a three-dimensional trompe l’oeil effect to passersby. The bold graphic approach continues throughout the project, from the eye-catching signage at the building’s entrance to the expressive and materially rich wayfinding on the interior.
Essential to the designers’ vision is a commitment to social and environmental sustainability so the design of the office embodies the principles of a healthy and productive workspace. Eighty percent of materials were sourced from local retailers and suppliers. Occupants on each floor are bathed in natural daylight from expansive corner windows cut out of the north and east façades, establishing transparency in both directions that cultivates connection with the community.
The building has established itself as a creative hub and kick-starter of local business and a catalyst for other neighbouring renewal. A prime example of urban revitalization, it has brought a new kind of diversity and vibrancy to the neighbourhood.
Collaboration
Architect : Dubbeldam Architecture + Design
