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Siège social de Caivan et ABIC
By : Figurr Architects Collective
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 17th edition
Discipline : Architecture
Categories : Special Award / Architecture + Wood : Gold Certification
Categories : Special Award / Architecture + Stairs : Silver Certification
Categories : Commercial Building / Low-Rise Office Building (< 5 storeys) : Gold Certification
Located in Barrhaven, Ontario, a suburb of Ottawa, and close to a growing community, Caivan / Advanced Building Innovation Company (ABIC)’s new 65,000 ft2 head office redefines the workplace experience. The design blends modern workplace elements with warm textures and natural light. The new headquarters also supports the company’s long-term vision of creating a modern work environment for their employees, a dynamic new space to help prospective homeowners during the purchasing process, and Caivan’s expanding community offerings.
The office is the second phase of a multi-phased project. Phase one was a fast-tracked fabrication facility housing innovative robotic systems that prefabricate housing panel systems for Caivan’s home development business.
To meet a high-level detailing standard that is reflective of Caivan’s manufacturing process, a collaborative team and client vision made the high level of detail of their building possible. The building’s central atrium integrates wood, custom-designed steel columns, and an exposed wood decking system. With the structure left exposed, everything had to fit together seamlessly. Mechanical ducts are hidden from view, and electrical work is embedded in the structure. Collaboration was critical – everyone on the team – from the design team, the client, the builder, and the trades, needed to buy into the vision to arrive at the expected level of detail.
Wood was central to the design strategy and a commitment to minimize the project’s environmental impact. The material is foundational to Caivan’s housing product offerings and was key to the expressiveness of the entire project. It was used throughout, including the CNC-branded walls and central Town Hall staircase. Every element of this project reflects the Caivan brand.
The Phase 2 headquarters includes administrative spaces, a public sales centre, a design centre, an “experience centre,” a reception area, a town hall atrium, the main boardroom, meeting rooms, a combination of open and closed office spaces, a series of kitchenettes and touchpoints throughout the building to support the team.
A sun-filled atrium is the connecting element in this dynamic building. The unique space has expansive bird-safe glass walls that link the indoors and outdoors. Extensive sun studies were performed to ensure the town hall atrium would be a comfortable place to work throughout the day. An amphitheatre-style staircase mixes functionality with aesthetics to provide a unique workplace feature. The atrium can hold company-wide events, keeping Caivan’s team informed on all aspects of the business.
The new head office breaks away from the traditional showroom experience and acts as a showpiece representing the company’s commitment to its team, the homeowner experience, design innovation, and craftsmanship.
Collaboration
Architect : Figurr Architects Collective
General Contractor : BBS Construction
Landscape Architecture : NAK Design Strategies
Engineering : Goodkey, Weedmark & Associates Ltd.
Photographer : Tom Arban Photography
