A holistic design approach that goes beyond accessibility
When LWG was approached to design the headquarters for the Canadian Federal Government's headquarters for Accessibility Standards Canada in Gatineau QC, we started a journey of discovery about what it means to exceed the basic requirements of universal design principles.
Interior Designer: Bryan Wiens, ARIDO
Design Team: Emilie Gautier
Design Firm: LWG
Photographer: Kevin Belanger
We were focused on delivering a design solution that integrates a holistic approach to accessibility in a way that dignifies users and democratizes space, within an activity based workplace methodology.
Some key elements that were taken into consideration included materiality (resilient flooring for better mobility), colours, and contrast (visual cues to help with navigation and wayfinding through space) and integration of technology.
The incorporation of individually controlled overhead lighting at every desk was one key design criteria that the client demanded and was elegantly achieved through collaboration with local lighting agency WSA.
In addition, considerations for acoustical solutions to offset the open high ceilings and resilient flooring provided opportunities to introduce suspended ceiling elements that serve to control sound and provide visual cues to indicate the zoning of different areas which are defined by activity.
Credit should be given to LWG Interior Designer Emilie Gautier, who took the lead on this project with guidance by LWG Principal Bryan Wiens.
Related
-
A Space Built on a Collaborative Approach to Design
In embracing post-pandemic design requirements, our client, International Research Development Centre (IDRC), assembled a group of employees to work closely with LWG to create a successful c ...
-
ARIDO Award: The Hive
The first of its kind in Canada, this 3D printed masonry wall is the result of a collaboration between design professionals, students, and faculty at an Ontario university. Category: CRAFT Interior De ...
-
ARIDO Award: Spadina Workplace
Designing for human behavior and fostering innovation were the two key strategies for this workplace redesign. The design team aimed to inspire a return to the office not from necessity, but a genuine ...