The design for the Toronto headquarters of Wealthsimple, a digital investment service, seamlessly combines professional office workspace with intimate communal meeting areas. This project involved revitalizing the third floor of an industrial building. The exposed masonry and brick, along with the natural solid woods used in the renovation, complement the traditional brick-and-beam structure. The project connects a new, slightly raised office space—an extension of the third floor—with a wide staircase, allowing for enhanced flow between the two areas. A generous communal eating area and an open-concept kitchen are further separated from the workspace by a series of shelves that house an office library. The space integrates both work and play with a coherent design that reinvents the traditional workspace, creating a unique work environment.
Wealthsimple
Toronto, ON
Project Facts
Client
Wealthsimple
Location
Toronto, ON
Status
Completed 2017
Size
8,639 sq. ft.
Partner
Siamak Hariri
Maintaining the building’s industrial character, HPA used a materials palette of rich, natural finishes and left much of the existing masonry and brick exposed. With large windows and a dynamic layout, the new design retains the openness and natural light that the existing building let in.
Dominating the centre of the space, the large communal eating area and open-concept kitchen join the two ends of the office. This central space responds to the client’s commitment to making community a priority.
Spacious, well-lit rooms; flexible workspaces that allow for both private and collaborative work; and collective lounge areas that stimulate relaxed collaboration all ensure a sense of belonging while breathing the Wealthsimple brand.
