• Lightspeed Office

    Montréal, Canada

journal

 
18 / 10 / 2017
Lightspeed commissioned ACDF Architecture – the designers for the first phase ofthe firm’s headquarters – to create a new floor dedicated to product development. The workspace of the point-of-sale software company is located on the ground floorof a 19th century railway hotel, the chateau-style Viger Railway Station.

With its distinctive architecture and its historical significance, the building is an iconic landmark that stands out in Old Montreal’s skyline. Inspired by the contrast between the historic railway station and the growing tech company, ACDF created a functional and lively office space. The new floor provides an ideal environment for development teams, expressing at the same time the audacious and creative nature of Lightspeed.The offices occupy a large and bright 15-foot-high space. Daylight reflects off theslick surfaces of the glossy white epoxy-coated floor and the gypsum ceiling.

The harmonious setting creates a unique synergy driven by spontaneous interaction.Inspired by the best product development approaches, Lightspeed encourages collaboration and self-organization amongst its team members. Each group worksas a unit, almost like an independent start-up company, and the collaborators adaptthe space to fit their needs. Each group has its own desks, meeting room and social area in the open floor plan.

Varying pastel tones spread on the walls and floors in shadow-like shapes, defining each team’s zone. Like small islands, these areas form a dynamic archipelago that invites gatherings to take place in the in-between spaces and the surrounding pastel walls double as whiteboards for impromptu meetings and presentations. The flexible environment helps team members to focus on projects in progress while also fostering close working relationships.Following in the footsteps of their design for the first floor, ACDF opted for a carefulintervention that preserves the original building’s rich heritage. Remnants of the existing shell offer a backdrop to the contemporary atmosphere of the office space.

The architects uncovered remaining bricks and stones to expose the raw material, and created a dynamic contrast between old rough walls and new rectilinear geometrythat highlights the space’s qualities.
Client : Lightspeed POS
Location : Montréal
QcCompletion : april 2017
Architect: ACDF Architecture
Photographer: Adrien Willliams 
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