IMCO brings employees to the “hive”

As IMCO outgrew their three different offices around Toronto, the investment management firm decided to create one big space in a new downtown building and bring all their employees together under one roof.

“The idea was with everyone in the same space, they would optimize collaboration, drive efficiency, and spur innovation,” says Joanne Chan, principal of SDI Design and interior design lead on the three-floor project. Taking inspiration from IMCO’s brand identity and intent to foster a more collaborative culture, Joanne focused on the notion of a “hive” to encourage employee engagement and productivity while also maintaining the firm’s commitment to sustainability.

Because Falkbuilt uses 30 percent fewer materials, virtually eliminates waste onsite and is designed for disassembly, it was the perfect choice.

“As part of the design and construction planning, SDI Design implemented innovative materials and systems to reduce environmental impacts and limit the work needed on-site,” Joanne says. “Digital Component Construction allowed for more flexibility and movement while reducing the impact on the base building and limiting the labour and material on site.”

One unique aspect of the design is three-way spandrels with customized angles. Powered by Echo, the panels were fabricated in Calgary, assembled in the factory and tagged prior to shipping and installation.

The glass offices reflect the geometry of a beehive and the meeting spaces let the light flow through the space, adding to the “democratic access to natural light” and helping the plentiful plants grow.

“The Falkbuilt walls help create a modern environment that has fostered employee well-being and collaboration and allowed for more flexibility for change in the future,” says Joanne, who worked closely with Falkbuilt, Cresa Toronto and Flat Iron to deliver IMCO’s new office on time and within budget.