Quadrangle Architects’ own studio on King Street in Toronto has been shortlisted for the 2013 International Association for Universal Design Awards. The awards ceremony will be hosted in Yokohama, Japan this fall.
Designed to demonstrate Quadrangle’s expertise in accessible and sustainable design, the 17,000-square-foot office goes well beyond current codes to ensure universal comfort and wellness. It has become a leading example of how design quality need not be compromised with inclusive design – the bold interiors are fresh and contemporary while integrating personally customizable furnishings and lighting. Materials subtly aid with wayfinding and generous spacing offers good access to persons with mobility devices, service animals or attendants. Universal design has dramatically and positively improved the studio’s health and corporate culture.
Quadrangle is known for breathing new life into former industrial buildings, creating innovative office environments, and for helping clients to live in healthier, easily accessible spaces. Since September 2012, the firm has inhabited this new location, which transforms the seventh floor of a former Postmodern data centre in Toronto’s King West neighbourhood. The entire studio is open-concept and everyone works from open workstations. Meeting rooms are glazed with views in, out and through the studio, ensuring continuous access to natural light. Windows surround the perimeter of the studio, providing sweeping views of Toronto’s skyline.
According to Quadrangle’s Managing Principal Susan Ruptash, “This project grew out of our desire to ‘walk the talk’ and demonstrate to our clients that custom-designed spaces are both comfortable, purposeful and beautiful. We are very excited to receive this international recognition and hope that it will prompt more people to become aware of how accessibility can be seamlessly integrated into their spaces.”