Projects / VIA Rail offices
A total immersion in the railway universe
A contemporary interpretation of the railway universe, rooted in movement and the human experience.
This project unfolded in two phases within an iconic site, rich in history and movement.
The first phase marked the completion of a major base-building project led by Cominar, initiated before the pandemic and then suspended for more than two years.
This unexpected pause tested our resilience and adaptability, while ultimately reinforcing the project’s relevance.
The second phase, entirely rethought in light of the new realities of hybrid work, focused on designing a full floor to accommodate VIA Rail teams.
The goal was to create a fluid, functional, and human-centered environment that supports collaboration while respecting individual needs. The layout includes a generous reception area, flexible conference rooms, enclosed offices, large open work areas, a welcoming staff lounge, and two spacious locker rooms.
The design intent centered on a subtle homage to the railway universe. Corrugated metal walls recall train cars, custom wallpaper incorporates fragments of the VIA Rail logo, and a black-and-yellow palette echoes the company’s visual identity. Accents of raw metal complete this contemporary industrial atmosphere, firmly rooted in the history of rail.
Meticulous work on wayfinding and graphic design enhances the spatial experience. A yellow line guides movement, frosted films ensure privacy, and large-scale murals drawn from VIA Rail’s archives reinforce a sense of belonging. Custom pictograms and an acrylic logo bring cohesion and clarity to the space.
True to our commitment to local and sustainable design, the project incorporates Quebec-made products, including Woodzco’s acoustic wood slat ceilings and partitions manufactured by local companies. The project embodies a vision of the office as a living, structured space, deeply rooted in its identity.