GoFigure3

Innovation / easyfinancial Flagship Branch

Empowering People with
Human Centric Design

Video

easyfinancial helps millions of Canadians by providing lending products when banks are not an option, assisting clients to regain their financial footing and rebuild their credit. Together with Figure3, easyfinancial reimagined their client-facing branch environment to position itself as Canada’s #1 Non-Prime Lender.

Focusing on education, comfort, and trust, Figure3 created a branch environment to support a seamless OMNI channel journey that helps transition customers from an online application to a personalized human interaction at the branch level.

To set easyfinancial apart from other non-prime lenders, Figure3 refocused the design around the customers themselves, fostering a more welcoming, hospitality-inspired experience. The new design highlights intuitive touchpoints throughout the space to ensure a consistent retail journey that enables customers to easily comprehend easyfinancial’s offerings at a time when information can feel overwhelming.

Infused with a level of compassion and empathy, the overall goal remained for easyfinancial clients to feel educated, understood, supported, and valued; much different from what they may experience with other competing non-prime lenders in the category. Designing this seamless customer experience started with transforming the physical layout, fundamentally changing how customers would flow through the branch.

“Our employee experience and customer experience are at the heart of the design. We wanted to evolve our branch but at the same time create a safe space”

/ Jackie Foo, Chief Operating Officer, goeasy Ltd.

The journey begins at the welcoming entry experience, where clients are greeted with warmth and acceptance. This entry space acts as a decompression zone to help clients transition from the bustling streets outside to the relaxed environment within.

With emphasis on humanity and respect, the journey continues into a comfortable waiting area adjacent to the entry vestibule, that features a standout interactive merchandiser as well as educational and product marketing material; encouraging customers to familiarize themselves with easyfinancial offerings. This uncluttered, graphically appealing signage hierarchy ensures the customer is educated on the product and service offerings and feels informed on the various lending verticals.

Within this multi-functional “learn area”, short financial education videos are looped for incoming clients as new projects, products, or services are offered and introduced, the information can easily be updated and displayed here – allowing for the messaging to evolve and update as determined by the needs of the business.

Through a series of targeted client interviews, an Ontario-wide staff seminar, and existing branch site visits, the Figure3 team was able to identify significant pain points and opportunities.

“One key learning was that the design of existing branches felt too open and impersonal to comfortably discuss the nature of the private, and sometimes uncomfortable conversations associated with financial planning,”

/ Mardi Najafi, VP, Retail Strategy and Design, Figure3

In order to address privacy and sound transfer, pod-like “squoval” shaped structures are positioned throughout the otherwise open floorplan, creating semi-private nooks. Slatted walls enclose each structure and allow for airflow and light to permeate the space while providing privacy and additional noise-reducing properties.

To support easyfinancial’s advisors in providing tailored solutions to clients, Figure3 strategically placed double-sided digital frames within the pods, allowing for cross-selling opportunities. These digital frames provide real-time control to pair relevant content to the individual appointment and offer an efficient way to update marketing messages.

Each squoval is outfitted with ergonomic furniture, including a sit/stand desk and adjustable monitor brackets. This configuration also provides a professional working enclosure for advisors to comfortably execute the daily requirements of their job; aiding in employee retention, a key consideration in an industry that often faces a high rate of staff turnover. “When you talk about the ownable elements, that pod does so many things for us, it acts as a place to showcase our products and services, and it provides a safe place for our clients to have private conversations. Every customer deserves a unique and special interaction, and the pods allow us to do that” stated Jackie Foo.

The success of this innovative branch design paves the way for easyfinancial to translate the kit-of-parts to accommodate neighborhood locations ranging from 1,500 to 1,750 square feet. Figure3 ensured that the design included ownable elements that could be scaled to suit these varying smaller format locations, without compromising on the core values that make the design impactful.

The focus on education, empathy, and comfort remains consistent throughout, ensuring that clients visiting these neighborhood branches receive the same level of care and support as those in larger locations.

The new human- centric branch design has allowed easyfinancial to reinforce their position as Canada’s top non-prime lender and financial partner to many across the country. As they expand this innovative approach to smaller neighborhood locations, easyfinancial is poised to make a lasting impact on communities across Canada, empowering individuals with the knowledge and resources to build a better financial future.

Innovation / Feel the Rhythm

A Vibrant Purpose-Built
Rental in Ottawa

Video

A premium rental community that stands apart by providing striking contemporary design and exceptional modern amenities for a dynamic lifestyle. This cornerstone development is optimally located near some of Ottawa’s most vibrant neighborhoods and easily accessible to the downtown core.

RioCan approached Figure3 with a mission to create an elevated purpose-built rental community for a gen z and millennial demographic, the likes of which Ottawa had never experienced. The project brand had already been determined, giving the team a strong peak into the vision for this development and the energy and feeling they were going to capture in the space.

“At Figure3 we don’t have a signature look.
We deliver a curated, personalized, bespoke
design for every project by understanding
who we are designing for and the
neighborhood that the project is going into.”

/ Dominic De Freitas, Principal

The design team began with a midtone monochromatic base, that created a timeless foundation. From there, they layered vibrant colours, textures, and patterns, inspired by pop art, and retro 60’s design that would appeal to this youthful demographic. The lobby space immediately conveys the tone of the project, with eye catching graphics, rose coloured accents and brights pops of colour integrated with the furniture selections. The essence of Rhythm is captured in the wave like ceiling detail that evokes a sense of movement.

“RioCan wanted to take advantage of the
flexibility afforded to amenities spaces within
the purpose-built rental sector, dedicating a
full floor to next level social environments.”

/ Megan Hayward, Senior Team Leader

Custom oversized wall graphic designed by Metro Wal Coverings and neon signage establishes a cohesive theme throughout the spaces, while creating unique and impactful visual interest, and the perfect backdrop for photo worthy social hangouts.

Thoughtfully laid out and housed in a premium location within the building, the amenity spaces enable social connection in an active environment. Stand out moments include the pre-drinking lounge, a revamped imagining of the classic party room, that provides residents the perfect place to start their evening out with friends.

Adjacent to this space are the arcade inspired games room, where you will find classic activities such as pool, and unexpected delights like the Shuffleboard court and custom built, oversized Scrabble board wall. This digital generation also needed a fun and flexible media lounge to accommodate everything from movie night to the big game or an all-hours video game marathon.

The amenity floor is complimented beautifully by the extensive outdoor living space, conceptualized by Figure3, with additional unique touches such as a bocce ball court oversized chess set and a cocktail courtyard space.

Figure3 has a deep understanding of the renter’s mindset, paying the upmost attention to functional details within the suites, that allow a tenant to envision themselves within the space. These touches such as under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen, and a custom designed vanity with a full-length mirror and integrated lighting are small touches that create maximum utility for the residents of Rhythm.

Rhythm sets a new standard for contemporary living in the Ottawa rental landscape. With a strong commitment to capturing the energy and essence of its target demographic, Figure3 designed a space that combines playful design elements with exceptional modern amenities, resulting in a dynamic and enticing place to call home.

Innovation / A New Legacy

SHAPING THE FUTURE OF WORK
AT CIBC SQUARE

Over 60 years ago, AGF was one of the first tenants of TD Tower, their previous location, and this move, again as a first tenant of CIBC Square, would represent a huge step towards the future.

A new legacy was set to begin for the multigenerational family business, and as a result, AGF challenged Figure3 to design a captivating office space, that embraced hybrid work and encouraged collaboration across both the physical and remote environments. Like many formal workplaces, the AGF office was previously designed with a traditional approach, featuring assigned desks, fixed equipment, and physical meeting rooms for a full-time, in-office workforce. However, long before the pandemic would keep us home, remote work was already becoming a part of the AGF culture and they were ready to further prioritize a hybrid work environment.

AGF wanted this new space to reinforce their purpose, identity and vitality while facilitating an interactive learning environment where team members felt connected to each other within the hybrid model. Spatial flexibility was also key in supporting a variety of project needs and creating an overall sense of wellness, empowerment and autonomy for employees. Figure3 set out to deliver this space for AGF with an added mission to balance the modern elements and fixtures of the new location whilst paying homage to their previous home and company history through subtle design details.

“With connectivity at the heart of the space, Figure3 gave equal consideration to both physical and digital elements throughout the design.”

/ Suzanne Wilkinson, Figure3 Principal

The design team hosted kickoff sessions, leadership interviews, and employee co-design workshops to determine the specific pain points, and how the desired behaviours could be influenced to elicit emotional responses that solved for these challenges through the design.

“With connectivity at the heart of the space, Figure3 gave equal consideration to both physical and digital elements throughout the design”, states Suzanne Wilkinson, Principal, Figure3. The team created clear circulation paths on each floor help to define departmental “neighbourhoods” and support the specific needs and adaptability required of each department.

Analysis was conducted to determine which departments required the most mobility and collaboration and which required the least. This helped to define the placement of departments in the overall layout of the floors and office space, and what styles of spaces would be needed. The central staircase, a beautiful and elegant focal point, is a key feature that emphasizes the connectivity of the new space – one that did not previously exist.

Each neighbourhood includes assigned workstations as well as flexible open areas for collaboration, quite zones, and unassigned “hoteling desks”, fully outfitted to accommodate hybrid staff when onsite. There is an element of spontaneity to each neighbourhood that creates natural collision points between colleagues that might not have otherwise occurred.
The environment feels open and energized. Private rooms are enclosed in glass to provide separation while still allowing natural light to permeate the interior space and the views to carry across the floorplate. The various spaces ensure that all employees can work in a way that suits them, promoting more happy, productive, and autonomous team members.

One of the biggest challenges faced by any hybrid environment is connecting the people working from the office, to those at home, and clients outside the organization. Figure3, working alongside Lora Goldberg, AGF Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, identified four different styles of working and evaluated the types of meetings AGF would be hosting to better design functional hybrid meeting spaces.

“How do employers draw workers back into the office? First of all, you build a beautiful office and that’s something that Figure3 definitely did”

/ Lora Goldberg, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, AGF Investments Inc.

This knowledge, in turn, defined the furniture, tools, technology, and acoustic considerations required to support a hybrid model. The team needed to ensure meeting rooms provided the right atmosphere and digital accommodations for equitable hybrid work, including positioning monitors at approximately the same height as those seated in-person around the table.

“Having an equitable workplace doesn’t mean treating everybody the same. It’s about giving people the tools they need to be as successful as possible,” notes Suzanne Wilkinson, Principal, Figure3.

As you enter the 40th floor, the atmosphere evolves into a moodier hospitality inspired environment with a large café that comfortably accommodates 85-100 people and features AV capability to support informal town halls and internal meetings. Smooth curves introduced in the furniture, light fixtures and accent tables juxtapose the sharp angles of the tile and stone helping to soften the space and create a comfortable environment.

Working in collaboration with art advisor and curator Emily McInnes, a collection of custom local art pieces we’re commissioned, that reflect both the culture and the values of the brand and add colour, texture and depth to the space. Figure3 incorporated the art into the physical space with intentional moments that unfold throughout and evoke wonder while sparking conversation. One of the standout pieces is displayed in the reception area; a large landscape from Steve Driscoll, a contemporary Toronto-based landscape artist whose work seeks to translate encounters with Canadian wilderness into bright, immersive paintings. This piece, specially commissioned for AGF, is titled “Breath of Air”, and depicts a panoramic hilltop scene of trees, lake, and sky.

The new environment continues to support overall staff wellness, and provide a safe, comfortable, energized, and productive workspace whether in the office or while connecting remotely.

Innovation / Equitable Hybrid Workplace

AN EQUITABLE HYBRID APPROACH
FOR EMPLOYEE WELLBEING

“Having an equitable workplace doesn’t mean treating everybody the same.
It’s about giving people the tools they need to be as successful as possible.”
/ Suzanne Wilkinson, Figure3 Principal

There is no denying that the way we work has evolved. How we interact with people, and
connect with and within the office environment has changed. As one of Canada’s largest
independent interior design firms, Figure3 has led some of the most exciting, innovative, and
award-winning office transformations, driving change in the workplace design sector.

Designing for what you see, and considering what you don’t.

When looking at the current landscape, data from Returning for Good, a Unispace Global
Workplace Insights report, found that only half of Canadian workers are in the office four or
more days a week and that 41 per cent of employees currently “hot-desk” or share a workstation
with other employees.*

In order to effectively bridge the gap between the remote and in-office work experience, and
create a seamless and equitable environment for all, businesses are looking to reimagine their
physical space to positively influence employee wellness, comfort, engagement, and placemaking.

With these considerations in mind, Figure3 explores the ways in which workplace design itself
must change. “Having an equitable workplace doesn’t mean treating everybody the same. It’s
about giving people the tools they need to be as successful as possible,” notes Suzanne
Wilkinson, Figure3 Principal.

Based on key research findings, Figure3 is implementing strategic design principles in order to
integrate hybrid work considerations into industry leading environments. Designing high-performance
workspaces means evaluating each contributing factor that may impact the design
and efficiency of the space: from room size and shape, to furniture, technology, and the atmosphere
which influences how people engage in the environment.

An equitable hybrid workspace creates more opportunities for collaboration and provides
enhanced connectivity.

Hybrid considerations are extremely critical in collaborative areas like meeting rooms,
making this a natural starting point for a revitalized design approach. “Recently we completed
an independent study to investigate how we can start designing better meeting
rooms: rooms that give an equal experience to both in-person and remote participants,”
shares Figure3 Workplace Strategy Director, Jillian Warren. The results of this investigation
revealed that over 90% of meetings will have at least one remote participant.

It’s no surprise that face to face interaction generates more ideas and diverse discussion
when compared to telecommunications, so the ability to clearly see the faces of all team
members, present or not, was a key consideration. Placing screens along the longer edge of
meeting tables, and at eye-level can help to create visual continuity and improve collaboration
and participation among hybrid participants.

In addition, fluid, organic shaped furniture also helps to better support flexible room configurations,
improve site lines, and reduces the often-hierarchical implications of traditional
rectangular configurations.

An equitable hybrid approach, however, does not stop in the meeting room. Figure3
approaches workplace design holistically, by breaking down boundaries in the physical
space and infusing concepts of employee wellness and flexibility into the overall environment.

It’s no surprise that face-to-face interaction generates more ideas and diverse discussion when compared to telecommunication.

When AGF, an independent and diversified global asset management firm, was looking to
reimagine their Toronto headquarters, they engaged Figure3 to design a space that
embraced a hybrid work culture, and encouraged connectivity and collaboration across
both the physical and remote environments.

Working alongside Lora Goldberg, AGF Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer,
Figure3 explored the ways in which key teams interact within the physical office, an exercise
that would identify four unique types of spaces to address different needs: public waiting
rooms, front-of-house rooms to host clients, back-of-house internal meeting rooms, and less
formal collaborative spaces. Key insights from the exercise helped to define the furniture,
tools, technology, and acoustic considerations required to support an equitable experience.

The result of the new AGF head office is a functional, innovative space that aims to create
seamless connection whether employees are working from the office, home, or outside of
the organization.

Improving employee wellness, productivity and retention while breaking down the boundaries
within the physical space.

At Manulife’s Canadian head office in Waterloo, a major shift was taking place as they
looked to modernize five existing floors of office space, while the staff of 2,500 carried on
with their daily work.

The Figure3 team approached Manulife’s reimagined campus design with a focus on wellness
and how the physical environment could support the users intended to it. Employing a
collaborative, discovery-based approach, the team developed a master plan that would
propel Manulife from an assigned workstation culture to an activity-based model; inspiring
improved internal collaboration and connectivity as well as supporting a balanced and
equitable, hybrid work environment.

“Employees will naturally use the space
if you design it correctly”
/ Suzanne Wilkinson, Figure3 Principal

When designing for an equitable hybrid work environment, providing a host of unassigned,
or hoteling desks that help reinforce a sense of placemaking for hybrid employees,
can greatly impact corporate culture and improve staff retention. This approach allows
users to function differently and come together to engage as their work requirements
necessitate. “Employees will naturally use the space if you design it correctly,” Wilkinson
notes.

Just beyond the building walls, there is an extensive network of outdoor pods set
amongst a stunning natural landscape. The pods are Wi-Fi equipped, allowing staff to not
only take an outdoor break, but also to work in an outdoor environment that would continue
to support their productivity. The campus design encourages movement and provides
the ability for employees to work close to and within nature.

Amenities are a huge draw for employees, but work flexibility has become just as important
in a world transformed by COVID-19. The pandemic has shifted people’s attitudes and
preferences toward work. The progressive direction Figure3 took with Manulife exhibits an
approach to post-pandemic planning and design of space only now being tested and
considered for adoption by other companies.

Focusing on the social benefits, and infusing hospitality-inspired amenities in order to
improve collaboration and connectivity when in-office.

Communal, multifunctional social spaces are becoming integral for the modern hybrid
office, to encourage positive team dynamics and more productive working relationships
regardless of location. Flexibility is at the core of the layout, allowing for the space to
adapt and transform based on the needs of the team.

When Bond Brand, a company that focuses on creating customer centric growth for their
clients, was looking to move their operation from Mississauga to downtown Toronto, they
engaged Figure3 to design a space that supports a hybrid work model, encourages
collaboration, and celebrates the character and values of their brand.
As you move through Bond Brand Loyalty’s new downtown Toronto office the playful,
flexible space unfolds into a highly collaborative environment that aims to translate loyalty
into the physical space.

On the 20th floor, a unique social space features a café, equipped with audio visual capabilities
to provide multifunctional use as well as booth seating, and harvest tables providing
a hospitality feel. The café provides the perfect hub for social interactions and casual
meetings.

The idea of collaboration, and how loyalty evolves through this process was key to the design.
Understanding how client relationships strengthen through Bond Brand’s process, Figure3
delivered a space that could unfold to support that progression. The deeper the relationship
Bond Brand has with their client the more integrated they become in their day-to-day workplace
activities. They become more integrated into their business and therefore more present
in the physical space.

In the new era of work, one thing is clear, the importance of an equitable hybrid experience,
one that supports employee wellbeing, cannot be overstated. Companies that choose to invest
in their physical environment are seeing greater engagement rates, a stronger return to the
office, increased productivity, and reduced turnover.

If you’re interested in learning more about how a reimagined work environment can help support
your business, please email us at: opportunities@figure3.com

* The research was conducted between April 3, 2023, and April 14, 2023 and surveyed 9,500 employees and 6,650 business leaders from across 17 countries.

Innovation / Business Development Bank of Canada

BDC’S TORONTO HEADQUARTERS
IS AS DYNAMIC AS THE ROLE
THIS BANK PLAYS FOR GROWING
CANADIAN COMPANIES

The best kind of design encapsulates and telegraphs a company’s ethos. The Business Development
Bank of Canada’s (BDC) main purpose is to help dynamic small businesses grow into their potential.
Their raison d’etre is positioning companies for success, so it was only fair that Figure3, a client of BDC,
would reciprocate in kind.

“As a small business, we sought out services from the BDC and they gave back by trusting us to design
their headquarters,” says Suzanne Wilkinson, Principal, Figure3. “BDC is about lifting small businesses
into a position for success. For me, there’s a genuineness about what they do.”

BDC examines a company’s strategy and their sales, and parses the spreadsheets to provide financing
options as required; providing an alternative to a traditional bank. Figure3 set out to give their new
Toronto office, set on the 37th floor of CIBC square, a suitably young, sharp and fresh approach with
a subtle Scandinavian look that hearkens back to BDC’s Montreal head office. The new space offers
stunning views of the CN Tower, a classic symbol of Toronto, at the front of the house, while lake views
abound at the back.

Monique Jahn, Director, Workplace, Figure3, notes BDC wanted to emulate the Montreal office at the
new CIBC Square location, while optimizing the 360-degree panorama of the city. “Because the building
is a landmark building in Toronto, it has its own unique design and presence in the city. What we’ve
developed for them is much more open and welcoming,” says Jahn, “they’re youthful and approachable.
They know what their organization wants to be and how they want their space to represent it.”

Wilkinson concurs: “BDC is modern sharp and forward-thinking. We reflected that with a graphic
black-and-white palette coupled with very deliberate lighting, creating a sense of appreciation for that
laser sharpness.”

BDC liked the authenticity of the polished concrete floor at the new Toronto location, which is a switch
from Montreal, but swapped out the exposed ceilings, opting instead for a more refined ceiling system.
Large format panels depict a cut-out of a stylized maple leaf, integrating the BDC logo in a subtle,
architectural way. BDC wanted to lean heavily on the maple, not only because it’s a Canadian staple,
but the blond wood compliments the fresh, Nordic vibe.

“There’s a fluidity that feels like nothing
is off limits, there’s space for you to do
whatever you want. Moving through the space
feels very easy and natural.”
/ William Gray

Each bank of offices was wrapped in black, with breakout space, and the views are
unobstructed from end to end. Cantilevered forms (such as the reception desk) are recurring;
they interlock and connect to each other to pull visitors and staff into different spaces.

William Gray, Figure3 Team Leader notes the front-of-house space fulfills multiple mandates.
“You have a lounge where clients can work until they meet with someone from BDC, along
with AV integration for when they host events.”

Opposite the reception, a coffee bar allows for social activity after a session in the training
room and it can be a spot to lay out a buffet, or a catered lunch. A servery in the lounge is
tucked away, with a galley kitchen and open gathering space with harvest tables and built-in
benches to create different zones and seating arrangements.

Standard offices and meeting rooms, located in the back-of-room, have flex-offices for hoteling.
“Because they are going to a reduced occupancy, there are lockers, coat storage and a bench in
the back corridors, so it’s a very all-service” says Gray. “There’s a fluidity that feels like nothing
is off limits, moving through the space feels very easy and natural.”

“The design seems very simple, but it is extremely considered in terms of why we picked the
materials, colours, the lighting. And our clients are interior designers as well, so they understood
the language and they challenged us” explains Jahn. “Other clients may not have the same level
of education in design. They respected us and looked for our support when choosing furniture
and finishes, to make sure they aligned and made sense as a holistic design. It was a nice
relationship: they respected what we had to contribute and they appreciated suggestions
outside of their standards. They were also willing to be challenged.”

Innovation / The Parker

NORTHERN LIGHT

A Scandi-style purpose-built rental reflects what millennials value, and how they want to live.

When it was announced that an urban café would reside at the ground level of The Parker, a new
purpose-built rental at Yonge and Eglinton, Figure3 knew they had a big opportunity on their hands to
create a space that appealed to a youthful demographic; one that’s so often associated with hip coffee
culture.

Traditionally retail is an independent component in a condo, accessed from the outside and often
stylistically disconnected from the design of the building it’s a part of. “When we learned that this
hospitality piece would be part of the lobby experience at The Parker, we got really excited because it
creates a really interesting dynamic.” says Dominic De Freitas, Principal, Figure3. “When it’s a
standalone retail it’s easy, but now we’re integrating it into the lobby and trying to create this seamless
experience with amenities that rival a luxury hotel.”

On a recent trip to Iceland, De Freitas was inspired by the unique details of the luxury hotels of the
region. “We veered towards a Nordic-themed clean, simplistic design; very elegant.”

In the lobby, materials reflect an elevated experience with pale, silvery blond woods that recur through
all the spaces, paired with concrete and black metal accents, common elements in Scandinavian design.
Frosted reeded glass behind the desk is back lit for a diffused, icy glow, and biophilic elements in the
lobby bringing in year-round greenery.

On the 37th amenity floor, the fitness centre is equipped with branded Hammer Strength equipment
and a Greenhouse Juice centre nearby. “These are examples of how Fitzrovia likes to curate a branded
experience. It’s these thoughtful details that are unique to them,” says De Freitas.

“We veered more towards this
Nordic-themed clean, simplistic design
but still very elegant.”
/ Dominic De Freitas

One of the standout features in the design is the double-height ceilings in common spaces such as the
fitness centre. “This was something I saw repeatedly in Iceland; the footprint of the spaces were small
but they had volume, says De Freitas. “When you walk into a tall volume the space just feels so much
better, which is why the yoga and party rooms are uniquely stacked.”

In the Sky Lounge, a two-storey wood panel emphasizes the verticality of the space and a custom blown
glass light fixture fills the volume from above drawing the eye up. The lower level is a sophisticated
lounge. “It reminds me of hotel VIP gold member lounges where they dedicate certain floors for their
members use only,” observes De Freitas. At the top of the staircase is a private entertainment kitchen
offering access to the outdoor terrace, and infinity pool set with cabanas. “In the summertime, you can
have drinks with friends and use the cabanas and pool, it feels private and exclusive.”

Accessed from the Sky Lounge, the games room adds an element of lighthearted design. It’s outfitted
with arcade games, a billiard table, and unique neon wall art depicting old school Pac-Man characters
created by Thrush Holmes. “We had fun with the retro game experience, explains Megan Hayward,
Senior Team Leader, Figure3. “We integrated custom neon art pieces and wall coverings resembling old
comic strips. We were being a little cheeky here.” More fun was had in the two-lane bowling alley area
where replica bowling balls are clustered in the ceiling, while a wall of funky bowling shoes are painted a
gradient scale as wall art.

Every square inch of the suites are maximized by design, to ensure an efficient and thoughtful suite
layout for comfortable living. The kitchens are equipped with a built in wine fridge, a rarity. “It’s
interesting, it was important to the developer that the suites had all the standard appliances that you’d
find in any suburban home,” says De Freitas. “So nothing was compromised in terms of size or scale.”
The countertops and backsplashes are quartz, with waterfall edges on the island and the cabinetry is
a sophisticated two-tone with wood on the bottom and an accent colour on the top.

Storage is another unexpected bonus. Hayward describes, “Customized storage solutions to help
organize the tenant was an important and intentional part of the suite design. We included an entry
mudroom organizer and extra-wide closets fully outfitted in the bedrooms, things you wouldn’t see in a
regular condo or rental.”

“I would say from a suite perspective that’s pretty innovative since it’s not common for this market,
having all these extra custom storage items that come built into the unit,” adds De Freitas. “It’s pretty
unique, and helps make The Parker a standout project.”

Innovation / Manulife

BREAKING THE MOLD:
MANULIFE’S DYNAMIC APPROACH
FOR THE FUTURE OF WORK

Manulife’s renovation of their piano-shaped office in Waterloo was more than a building overhaul.
It was an opportunity to entirely reshape how they work.

In 2018, Manulife had made the decision to consolidate their teams in Kitchener-Waterloo into their existing
330,000-square-foot building on King Street. This project afforded Manulife an opportunity to completely
transform their offices into an environment more conducive to collaboration and innovation. As such, when
the COVID-19 pandemic set in and companies around the world became more concerned by how they were
going to encourage employees to return to the office, Manulife found themselves way ahead in the race to
attract and retain the best talent.

“Our workplace transformation was well-timed with the pandemic, which forced companies to make
significant changes, much like the ones we’d already mapped out for our new office,” observes Michael
Miceli, Manulife’s AVP and Managing Director, Corporate Real Estate. “At the outset, we focused on making
our employee experience more positive and productive by upgrading our mechanical systems; introducing
more fresh air, touchless door operations, traffic calming and a turning circle that eases employee drop-offs.”

“We’re seeing workplace design more and more influenced by hospitality and even retail design. Those who
work in retail and hospitality think of space as a ‘service’ to their customers. We’re now seeing these same
principles being applied to an employee’s connection to the workplace,” says Figure3 Principal Eric Yorath.
“It’s not just amenities but services that will attract employees back to an office. And this is the direction
Manulife is heading.”

“Our workplace transformation was well-timed
with the pandemic, which forced companies
to make significant changes, much like the ones
we’d already mapped out for our new office.”
/ Michael Miceli. AVP and Managing Director, Corporate Real Estate, Canada at Manulife Financial

Figure3 developed a master plan to shift Manulife from an assigned workstation culture to an activity-based
model, an entirely different way of working. This thoughtfully executed environment reinforces
to each team member the vital part they play in contributing to the whole by providing a kinetic,
user-centric experience where they get to choose how and where to do their best work.

The space also encourages movement with convenient, practical destination points throughout
(which build natural opportunities to stop and engage with co-workers), and a balance of social and quiet
spaces to promote emotional well-being.

“The intent was to link Manulife’s mission and values with a new approach to “service” that was
personal and would resonate with the individuals that would be occupying it,” says Jennifer Tinson, Creative
Director, Workplace, Figure3. “The layout along with the ‘look and feel’ needed to represent Manulife visually
and experientially while remaining consistent across all Manulife facilities. We developed standards to allow
the flexibility necessary to accommodate the range of buildings, settings and conditions that exist in the
Manulife portfolio, integrating dynamic, brand-aligned features and elements that could be modified
accordingly.”

The lobby offers a powerful first impression, setting the tone for a positive visitor and employee experience
that continues at touch points along natural paths of travel across these large floors. Familiar brand icons
and colour references are purposefully articulated throughout the space, with carefully placed walls of
greenery offering a nod to the outside environment from the expansive window views.

Amenities are a huge draw for employees, but work flexibility will be just as important in a world transformed
by COVID-19. When they return to the office, Manulife teams will be able to work in a hybrid arrangement –
partially from home and partially in the office – and can choose the space to suit the activities required for
that particular work day. “Other employers are trying to get their buildings up to the same type of standard,
and we have already built it,” notes Mark Thompson, Manulife Corporate Real Estate Director.
“We are already there.”

Space functions are clear and travel paths intuitive, dividing the floors into manageable and navigable
neighbourhoods that balance active dynamic zones in which to work, collaborate and socialize, and quiet
places to focus and re-energize. Senior management are located in and amongst staff with meeting spaces
and alcoves in proximity to allow for more visibility of fellow staff.

The conference centre offers a lounge for client or internal functions, and three 24-person meeting rooms
with retractable ceiling partitions can accommodate theatre-style seating for up to 200. The generous caf
is an office hub with direct access to an outdoor terrace that’s a setting for dining, socializing, and a wide
range of staff activities. The wellness centre includes locker and shower facilities, multipurpose rooms,
reflection rooms and a refreshment lounge adjacent to an arrival point, with plenty of bike storage.

“It’s been an amazing undertaking where the architect, the designers, the business representatives and
our team all played critical roles in its success, striking a balance between interests,” observes Miceli. “And in
the end, we moved mountains together. Figure3 provided the connection between all aspects of the
transformation that we wanted to achieve, as well as the necessary ingredients to prepare our
3,400 employees in Kitchener-Waterloo for our new way of working.”

A study in how design and change management can effectively work together, Manulife’s new workplace
is bold, lively, and engaging, and has been met with enthusiasm from staff. This transformative shift in the
work experience will serve to establish the Manulife standard for their facilities around the world.

Innovation / Ontario Power Generation

A MAJOR REDESIGN SPARKS A
NEW KIND OF ENERGY

It’s something many employees face every day: grey acoustic panels dividing cubicles, drab carpeting, and
uninspiring views. Figure3 was tasked to flip the switch on the downtown Toronto offices of Ontario Power
Generation (OPG) at 700 University Avenue.

The renowned utility company had worked out of their existing office since the 1970’s with 550 employees
scattered across five floors over approximately 200,000 square feet of office space. But such a major change
meant shining a light not just on the company’s hierarchic office system and dated furnishings, but their bright
vision of the future.

Much as OPG is transforming its business, they wanted to reduce their own real estate footprint down to 2.5
floors, and one of the major changes was to eliminate their 246 private offices.

Principal at Figure3, Suzanne Wilkinson observes: “Reinvigorating the excitement and passion for what
OPG does is truly important here. With its sights set on being a catalyst for economy-wide decarbonization
and a climate change leader, OPG knew they needed to attract the talent to deliver their business goals.”

“OPG was going through culture shifts affecting every part of their business while also pursuing the
development of new clean energy technologies, new entrepreneurial business lines, and a stronger focus
on equity, diversity and inclusion,” notes Michelle Berry, VP, Workplace at Figure3. As a government agency,
every penny OPG spends is scrutinized so there virtually hadn’t been any changes to their office for close
to 25 years. “It was like being in a time warp, the executives were in over-sized private offices covering
all perimeter windows and the interior spaces were compressed with little to no space allocated for
collaboration or gathering spaces. The disparity was too great between what leadership had versus what
the employees had.”

“OPG was going through culture shifts affecting
every part of their business from the way their
plants were processing and generating power,
to a huge change around leadership.”
/ Michelle Berry

Figure3 walked OPG through their proprietary research approach and visioning exercises with employees
from across the spectrum to produce an extensive Strategy Report. “We uncovered the many nuances that
made the groups unique but also discovered the common threads that bind the organization,” Berry notes.

The building has a unique, curved profile overlooking Queen’s Park that Figure3 capitalized on. To promote
movement and connection among staff, Figure3 created ‘The Boardwalk’, an energetic open environment
along the window offering a choice of stimulating work settings with access to natural light. “The natural
light radiating from the curve of the building wasn’t reaching the inner work spaces which drove us to
prioritize the location of the common and shared spaces,” says Wilkinson.

To further emphasize OPG’s unique culture, a feature wall of hardhats displays the logos of construction
group partnerships and the reception desk is made of steel tubes to mimic the nuclear calandria cooling
tube. “We basically wouldn’t have anything if we didn’t have energy, so OPG wanted to pay attention to
the purpose of the organization with a direct connection to the power plants across Ontario. We wanted to
make sure we put their purpose, people, and the array of energy on display,” says Berry.

“Previously OPG had less than 10 meeting rooms so people became very territorial,” says Berry. “We
removed the private offices but gave them a huge complement of meeting rooms, both open and
closed, with more choice and variation.” The organization didn’t want staff to park themselves in the same
spot every day, instead circulating employees to different “neighbourhoods” that include grouped key
meeting spaces, support spaces and primary workspaces to spark interaction and collaboration. In this
planning model, the head of nuclear energy might bump into someone in solar development for a burst of
spontaneous collaboration.

Connie Hergert, VP Corporate Real Estate at OPG explains the CEO was committed to eliminating private
offices, but many executives felt they had worked hard to get to a level where they could secure their own
office, making it difficult to give that up. “The majority who have made the transition are huge proponents of
this model,” says Hergert. “The executives now realize they didn’t actually spend a lot of time in their offices.
The new variety of huddle rooms provide a quiet, private space but there are more conversations happening
now being more accessible.”

That’s also led to higher trust levels as employees have greater access to their managers and colleagues.
Many problems and challenges are addressed by a quick huddle or hallway chat rather than scheduling
a formal meeting. “We’ve also reduced our costs by more than half and eliminated the churn caused by
traditional office moves,” notes Hergert.

One of the inspirations for the design was Moriyama House in Tokyo, the brainchild of Ryue Nishizawa,
where each room is a building in itself and the spaces between the buildings are equally vital. Wilkinson
explains Figure3 applied the principles to the OPG floorplan, where neighbourhood meeting spaces
without walls are often adjacent to closed meeting rooms. “It allows people to have choice and variety where
they position themselves and utilize all the circulation space in the functional areas. The boardwalk houses
a variety of interactive spaces with moveable furniture all along the perimeter.” Figure3 worked to ensure
the communal lunch room had access to natural light, and introduced biophilic elements throughout, plus
wellness rooms and quiet zones for heads-down focus.

“Our employees love our new space and say they feel more connected to the company and each other,”
enthuses Hergert. “They tell us it makes them feel like we are a “modern company” now: our branding,
values and purpose are reflected in the space.”

“One of my favourite comments from a long-standing employee was that she made a new work friend in
the first week in our new space. Both of them had worked at OPG for over 30 years, but they had never met
because they were stuck in their cubicles. That’s how much the workplace has brought people together,”
says Hergert.

Innovation / Grand Central Mimico

AN IMMERSIVE PRESENTATION CENTRE
IS LIKE A WALK DOWN MAIN STREET

The layout of Vandyk Properties’ Grand Central Mimico presentation centre at 54 Newcastle in Etobicoke can
be likened to strolling one of the area’s thoroughfares, popping into San Remo bakery for a sfoglio canolli
or picking up a case of Sunnyside IPA from Great Lakes microbrewery. “We used learnings from retail
behaviours in designing this space, it feels like a street of shops,” says Mardi Najafi, VP, Retail Strategy and Design
for Figure3. “The central hall is laid out like a Main Street, and to the left and right are vignettes simulating
a shop-in-shop experience with multiple touchpoints.”

Opposing conventional thinking, the sales staff offices were moved to the back of the centre behind
a demising wall, to bring the retail experience to the forefront. “Developer John Vandyk wanted
something grander, more spectacular, without defining what it was going to be,” explains Suzanne
Wilkinson, Principal, Figure3. “We wanted to approach this presentation centre as a true retail
environment, and for that reason we decided our residential and retail teams should join forces.”

There is a polished, industrial vibe to the design of the presentation centre, where dark metal is used to
form box-like structures to frame the vignettes. The frames contrast the pale, polished concrete flooring
with bits of aggregate showing through. “You want the presentation centre to emulate the design quality
of the project. When we saw that open warehouse space, we sought to recreate the lobby design by keeping
the industrial ceiling which was already there and embellishing it with more detail,” Wilkinson notes.

“We used learnings from retail
behaviours in designing this space,
it feels like a street of shops.”
/ Mardi Najafi

The first third of the Grand Central Mimico presentation centre serves to educate visitors about the
neighbourhood. Dubbed the “decompression zone,” it calms visitors and helps to prepare them for what
lies ahead, encouraging them to focus and be more open to browsing.

The journey continues just past the angled site plan model which gently funnels visitors to the right to
pass through various touchpoints which help the sales experience. Behind the model sits a large interactive
touch screen inset in a slab of Nero Marquino marble in a leather-like finish. Figure3 Team Leader Nicole
Hoppe notes: “The material palette is based on the lobby design of The Buckingham, the first condo at Grand
Central Mimico. It was something that added a level of sophistication to the overall industrial elements.
Natural material helps soften the metal throughout the space.”

The main focal point of the sales floor is a generous bar where customers can be served coffee or bubbly
to celebrate a purchase. “If you can get a client to feel safe and welcome, you are more likely to make
a sale. In the old days the closing rooms were behind doors, like a bank. All of that has now changed.
People want to see the action and the energy, it excites them,” according to Wilkinson.

The design allows choice and seating variation for customers based on their comfort level,” expands Najafi.
”This is a full-service guided experience. Customers are always accompanied by the sales staff, therefore
we created these various touchpoints. They can choose to continue the conversation at the bar, in the two
sit-down lounges or a communal table.” Hoppe adds: “It’s not just a place for selling. There are a lot of
investors, brokers and salespeople who don’t necessarily work for Vandyk Properties but need to sit with a laptop,
have a coffee and get work done. It’s comfortable for those people too, as well as buyers. It’s an
active space.”

The lounges are outfitted with comfy low sofas and coffee tables, with inset fireplaces, which replicates
what will be seen in The Buckingham lobby. “The entire experience represents what the amenity spaces at
the condo are going to feel like,” observes Najafi.

The result is a curated experience where potential buyers pass through a sequence of stations that educate
them about the project. By the end, they have learned about the developer, comparing a trio of palettes
that allows finishes to be seen in a holistic way, understanding the floorplans, the amenities and smart
home system offerings. “The high-touch design is very deliberate. Experts are sharing all aspects of this
project so the client has a really solid understanding by the end of the journey of what they’re buying
into,” notes Wilkinson.

Typically a presentation centre might have a shelf life of a few months as the units sell. The innovation of
the Grand Central Mimico presentation centre lies in how the adaptable space will evolve over time. Made
from interchangeable elements, it’s easy to incorporate new signage, new models, the triptych of finishes
and floor plans on the interactive digital screens as the condo moves to phases two and three.

“This presentation centre invites you in, and you intuitively know where to go next. That hospitality notion
is critical, you feel like you could stay a while,” says Wilkinson. “The Grand Central Mimico presentation
centre reminds me of going to the Interior Design Show on opening night, that sense of high design and the
excitement of seeing the latest and best the industry has to offer.”