M Moser Associates Living Lab – Vancouver

M Moser Associates redesigned their Vancouver office as a living lab, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and human-centric design in a Class B building. The adaptive space supports diverse activities and future changes.

Firm
  • Client M Moser Associates,
  • size 6,400 sqft
  • Year 2023
  • Location Vancouver, Canada,
  • Industry Architecture Firm,

    • In the latter part of 2023, M Moser’s Vancouver team set out to reimagine their workplace as a living lab. Setting the stage for a transformative experience, they wanted to redefine the workspace while reflecting their ESG targets and global values.

    Seeking certifications such as WELL Platinum and net zero, the goals were clear: to spotlight innovation, sustainability and the firm’s commitment to design excellence.

    Key highlights
    • A testing ground for our employees, clients and partners to collaborate, innovate and enhance the workplace experience, tackling today’s workplace challenges.
    • Aligning with our firm’s global values, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) targets, WELL Platinum and net zero certifications.
    • Increasing attendance, attraction and retention through a dynamic, resilient and healthy space.
    • Building upon insights and data from previous living labs to test and refine solutions that meet our needs and help deliver value to clients.

    Transforming a Class B building
    The relocation to a Class B building and subsequent renovation presented a unique opportunity to showcase the power and perspective of design. While Class B buildings may be perceived as limited or conventional, this project shatters stereotypes. It demonstrates what is achievable through innovative upgrades, smart building technology and thoughtful renovations.

    Changing perspectives in the industry
    M Moser wanted to exceed the typical offerings of tools, equipment and amenities while focusing on human-centric design and cost efficiency. At the same time, they sought to energise the physical environment and introduce fresh ideas about the workplace to the Vancouver market.

    Maximum agility
    The design team maximised existing infrastructure through clever interventions. They optimised space utilisation, leveraged abundant natural light and surrounding views and created versatile work settings to support their diverse needs.

    The office’s flexible design is entirely adaptive and interchangeable. Moveable, ergonomic workstations, sound lighting and acoustic interventions support each area. Power is independent and mobile, allowing employees to make changes freely without impacting existing services in the space.

    Each space supports a variety of activities, from team huddles and client meetings to large events and studio-style collaboration. The design ensures flexibility to meet current needs and adapt effortlessly to future changes.

    Elevating the branded journey
    Environmental Graphic Design (EGD) aims to create cohesive, intuitive environments. It guides people through spaces, communicates messages, expresses brand identities and reinforces the overall aesthetic and purpose of the environment.

    M Moser’s brand experience team created an anamorphic graphic at the entry. It’s inspired by ‘perspectives’ and forms the word ‘create’ from a single viewing point. An isometric illustration celebrates the firm’s work and showcases various project types on a large TV wall. An animated, digital portion of this illustration continues across the large TV. Room names are different types of ‘perspectives’ or ways of viewing the world.

    Diversity and cohesion
    The office is a thoughtful blend of functionality, aesthetics and sustainability. From understanding spatial needs to envisioning hybrid work settings, the team examined every detail. These careful considerations helped us craft a space to support their current and future needs.

    Continuous measurement
    The office is set up for continuous data collection and measurement so the team can focus on flexibility and future adaptations. This catalyses exploration and experimentation and helps them shape the future of work in real time.

    Strategically placed sensors throughout the space continuously monitor various factors. A display screen tracks real-time information like air quality, indicating when the workplace is at its healthiest. This proactive approach enhances decision-making, supports creativity and boosts overall productivity.

    Designing for net zero
    From navigating strict certification requirements to ensuring minimal environmental impact, M Moser met each requirement of our net zero goals with innovative solutions. Sourcing environmentally conscious materials, maximising existing resources and leveraging local suppliers were just some strategies employed to achieve targets.

    Shaping the future of work
    The impact of M Moser’s Vancouver office relocation extends far beyond its physical space. By creating welcoming environments, supporting flexibility and prioritising sustainability, the space allows the team to reimagine the workplace and reshape the future of work itself. With a commitment to continuous testing, iteration and improvement, their journey is far from over. They will continue to test, measure and iterate all that this space has to offer, adapting for the future.

    Design: M Moser Associates
    Photography: Barrie Underhill | Upper Left Photography