Location: Toronto, Canada.

Architect: dkstudio architects inc.

InstarAGF, the infrastructure investment arm of AGF financial advisors, has opened a new office on the 34th floor of one of the iconic black steel towers designed by Mies Van De Rohe in downtown Toronto. The concept behind the office was to create a dynamic, bright intervention that would stand out from the surrounding black towers. To achieve this, the main office surfaces were designed in white, highly reflective finishes, creating a glowing white box that reflects light and brings reflections of the outside skies and skyline deep into the office. The front entrance greets visitors with white Statuario marble floors and feature walls, as well as a wall of polished white Venetian plaster for future artwork display. The main office flooring is made entirely of high gloss white epoxy flooring, while the new white ceiling grid and building core wrapping offices are tied rigorously into the Miesian structural and window grids. The board room features a wide plank 360 degree walnut sleeve-like enclosure that offers relief to the otherwise relentless white box concept. The suite of CEO office custom designed furniture also breaks the white palette grid, featuring pieces designed and custom built in bronze, with white Calacuta marble tops and accents. The office is based on an open plan, reflecting the progressive, energetic, and venturous culture of Instar. The white box concept was created in response to this culture, and the result is a unique and striking office space that stands out from the surrounding black towers. At night, the office gives off a white glow, further emphasizing its dynamic and bright nature.

Photo credit: Michael Muraz.