Munich Re Offices – Toronto
SGH Design Partners have realized the Scandinavian influenced design of the Munich Re offices, an insurance company, located in Toronto, Canada.
Inspiring creativity, innovation and fostering social connections, shifting the culture of this workspace from traditional and conservative to dynamic and progressive.
Modern and timeless light woods, white walls, contrasting textures and careful application of colour ensures design longevity. Quality and functionality was primary focus for material selections.
Using a holistic approach, early partnership with furniture vendor, we gained a greater understanding of the team’s daily functions. Forward focused solutions were designed to support their specific needs.
Transparency
Offices are inboard with full glass fronts allowing for maximum access to natural daylight. Visibility across the workspaces helps break down barriers between departments and encourages more cross-disciplinary interaction.Focus
Circulation paths and placement of social zones were carefully planned to minimize interruptions and maintain required focus in personal workspaces. Attention to detailing and material selections maximized acoustic performance.Design for Movement
All primary work surfaces are sit/stand. The three interconnected floors, connected with an existing staircase, unique features were provided to encourage vertical movement.Spatial Manipulation
“Less for me, more for my team.” In depth programming analysis focused on the attributes and requirements of each department, allowing the design team to develop progressive neighbourhoods that cater to the specific needs of the department for focus, collaboration and socialization.By aligning the workplace more closely to the Global brand we achieved strategic objectives for innovation and talent attraction. Previously, the office was set up as individual workspaces and segregated departments which forced people to work independently. The new space encourages sharing of knowledge and information between teams. Work areas visually connect employees and are well balanced with a variety of collaboration and social zones.
Carefully selected ambassadors from each team were a part of in-depth visioning sessions throughout the project. This unique connection between Client and Design Team provided for clear understanding of each team’s objectives and needs.
Employees are encouraged to explore the three floors. Unique spaces on each floor include: 21st floor, a multi-purpose training space; 22nd floor, boardroom complex; and 23rd floor, Games/Social lounge. All spaces were designed with the ambassadors input and inspiration.
Design: SGH Design Partners
Design Team: Monika Sarkisian, Partner, SGH Design Partners, Mireille Metwalli
Photography: Richard Johnson & Pawel Urbaniak
