Groupe Dynamite is a women’s clothing retailer operating 275 stores worldwide under two brands, Dynamite and Garage. Located in an industrial park in Town of Mount-Royal, the head office and distribution center occupy two large industrial buildings linked by an underground tunnel. The objective was to create a permanent link between the two buildings and create a bright, flexible and dynamic space for staff to meet, collaborate, learn and dine. The concept involved repurposing the alley that separated the two building and inserting a large atrium space to house a 2000 sq. ft. creative lounge, a 6000 sq. ft. cafeteria and an 1800 sq. ft. multifunction space for conferences and training.
The atrium features a glue-laminated timber structure that echoes the industrial aesthetics of the existing buildings. The landscaping of the inner courtyard conceals views of the atrium from the street. The landscaping concept is carried inside the space with green walls installed along the existing brick demising walls. At the back, a steel and glass staircase leads to an outdoor patio located above the multifunction conference center. The creative lounge and bistro area feature movable furniture to allow Dynamite to host events. Custom tables were designed so that they could be grouped together to create platforms or catwalks for fashion shows.
Credits:
Co-creation : Groupe Dynamite & Aedifica
Architecture : Aedifica
MEP : Aedifica Consultants
Structural: SBSA
Pictures : F. Descoteaux