In 2016, Slack sought to create an imaginative space for their Toronto office that reflected their company culture and its relationship with craft and technology. Three storeys within a former textile factory were redesigned to meet the needs of a 21st century tech company, inspired by the building’s heritage. The project team drew from a “threads of communication” concept using linear geometries throughout the space, such as angular light fixtures and coloured networking cables running through the length of the office on the ceiling and walls. These enliven the space in an homage to the lines of yarn that were used in the knitting process, while also referencing the messaging application itself. In the reception area, the design team wrapped diagonal strips of industrial felt along the walls and ceiling, creating a warm and inviting environment as soon as you step into the office.
A feature characteristic of the interior is the bold, contrasting pops of colour that demarcate areas including solitary work stations, phone booths, break-out meeting rooms, a staff lounge and sleek executive boardroom. Each zone corresponds to a single colour that makes up Slack’s branding. Meeting rooms are uniform yet each unique, owing to their bold, monochromatic colour scheme. Throughout, vibrantly coloured acoustic wall paneling matches textured carpeting and distinctive furniture pieces. The angular light fixtures appear to thread through the ceiling, knitting workspaces and meeting rooms together. The communal cafe picks up on the linear theme again with its white and wood diagonal slat finish. The interiors are varied enough to meet the functional requirements of 140 employees, but bring a sense of continuity and community to the workplace. The layout builds upon Slack’s tenet of providing engaging spaces for work and play, while the material nature pays tribute to company values of craftsmanship and heritage.
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