Featuring works by emerging artists, this expansion of Scotiabank’s Toronto headquarters grew out of a collaborative process based on dialogue between the architects and the bank’s employees.
In Toronto’s financial district, KPMB Architects has designed the interiors of Scotiabank North for Scotiabank, one of Canada’s leading financial institutions. The offices are located inside the North Tower of the Bay Adelaide Centre, also designed by KPMB.
Scotiabank North isn’t just a major expansion of the bank’s headquarters, but also an innovative vision of the workplace of the future. Conceived during the pandemic, the project combines innovative design solutions with an approach centered on wellness and inclusion.
Designing Scotiabank North was a collaborative process, heavily influenced by the new work dynamic that emerged during the pandemic. The approach actively involved employees in the design of the interiors, asking them to provide input into their functionality, appearance, and general characteristics.
The result is a workplace that fosters a sense of belonging, responds to individual needs, and creates a stimulating environment. Each of the 14 levels reflects the well-defined design that grew out of this ongoing dialogue among the KPMB team, employees, and consultants.
A distinctive feature of the project is the integration of informal “third spaces” into the workplace, designed to host employees in a dynamic and inclusive way. Coined by American sociologist Ray Oldenburg in the 1980s, the term third place refers to a third place where people spend their time between the first place (home) and the second place (work).
A second-floor mezzanine houses a drop-off point for staff deliveries, and a room dedicated to reflection and wellness. On the tenth and eleventh floors, a furnished terrace and art gallery provide places to relax and socialize.
The idea of “hosting employees” is also reflected in the small lounges near the entrance, which act as shared spaces for creating a welcoming atmosphere and sense of community within the building.
The design stands out for the use of fine materials, such as wood and marble finishes, which add warmth to the rooms. Adorning the workspaces are armchairs in a range of colors, from neutral to brighter tones, and large tables to encourage co-working.
The use of Scotiabank’s corporate colors, along with custom seating and furnishings, helps create a functional and visually pleasing environment. The different levels are connected by cafés and bistros, which offer welcoming spaces for employees and clients.
A distinctive element of the headquarters is the integration of art into the overall design, with a variety of works and murals by emerging Canadian artists reflecting the bank’s commitment to culture and creativity.
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Location: Toronto, Canada
Completion: 2024
Client: Scotiabank
Architect: KPMB Architects
Photography by Doublespace Photography, courtesy of KPMB Architects