This financial service firm's new office space required integrating staff across three stories in a high rise building to promote culture and collaboration. The base building included an existing slab opening that was to be re-used as a matter of economy to avoid cutting and reinforcing a different configuration. So the architectural stair was designed with two intermediate landings suspended by tension rods on the stringer to give the appearance of floating. Ultra-clear, all-glass guards where recessed into the built-up steel stringers to minimize the depth and visual weight of the stair to enhance its floating appearance. To promote culture and collaboration, the stair provides circulation between the reception area, lounge, and meeting spaces while offering staff with skyline views, daylighting, and a moment for spontaneous interaction as a matter of well-being.
Nicholas Jay Architect was the architect-of-record for the stair in a collaborative project with Toronto-based interior design firm, Figure3.