Occupying a corner suite high up in Montreal’s iconic Place Ville Marie tower—a 47-storey skyscraper built in 1962 by renowned architects I. M. Pei and Henry N. Cobb—data science company TEC ENERGY’s new office channels the timeless elegance of the building’s midcentury-modern aesthetic through a lens of contemporary minimalism, courtesy of local architecture and design studio MRDK. Known for their narrative driven approach to design rooted in a deep respect for the sites they work on, together with their clients, craftsmen and materiality, the team has created an exquisitely-detailed modern work environment with all the hallmarks of effortless refinement ultimately reflecting the essence of the landmark property.

Upon entry, visitors are greeted by a vestibule framed by a geometric screen wall inspired by the brutalist aesthetic of a nearby power station. Swathed in a dark charcoal hue, the stark vestibule makes the light-filled spaces that it leads to airier and brighter.

The office layout promotes interaction and teamwork with open-plan workstations complemented by numerous breakout areas, including seating booths, a secluded lounge ensconced in a greenery-filled nook, and a phone booth for privacy. The open-plan layout fosters dialogue amongst colleagues as well as ensures that natural lighting flooding in from the glass facades is evenly distributed across the space, including the two glass-enclosed private offices located on the corner of the space.

The same applies to the adjacent kitchen and dining area which is separated by clear glass and glass brick partitions. Strategically positioned to offer sweeping views of downtown Montreal, this area is conducive as much for socializing and relaxation as it is for meetings and collaboration.

Acoustic considerations, essential for a productive work environment, are seamlessly integrated throughout via acoustic panels which line the open-plan workstation area while suspended felt baffles in the private offices, kitchen and dining area help dampen ambient noise and conceal the exposed ceiling structure.

Underpinned by a muted palette of off-white, grey and natural wood hue, the work areas evoke a sense of simplicity, order and elegance. This is intermixed with the three abstract artworks spelling the company’s name by Caravane Studio, which along with the use of lush greenery, add pops of vibrant colour, while the bespoke sofas and seating booths inject a sense of contemporary sophistication. Taking this playful sensibility one step further, the kitchen and dining area feature a terrazzo counter paired with sleek stools upholstered in burnt orange leather, stainless-steel cabinetry and decorative floor tiles by Mutina.

Resonating with the site’s iconic identity whilst interjecting a sense of sophistication, the use of travertine and aluminum in the private offices reinject a sense of timeless elegance back into the overall project.