Silvera’s office embodies its people-first mission
Silvera for Seniors is a trusted non-profit housing provider offering supportive and independent living options for seniors throughout Calgary. With over 60 years of service and a portfolio expanding across all four quadrants of the city, they needed a main office that could grow with their operations while reflecting the supportive nature of the communities they serve.
To bring their people-first ethos into the workplace, our team used Workplace Mapping to better understand the teams unique collaborative culture. The resulting design creates flexible zones that foster collaboration while maintaining the calm, supportive atmosphere Silvera brings to their communities.
Andrea Pedreanez
Project Start Date: March 2024
Project Completion Date: December 2025
Square Footage: + / - 10,000 sq ft
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The Challenge
Resource optimization: Creating a space that met functional and cultural priorities while remaining financially disciplined. Strategic decisions around reuse opportunities and simplified detailing freed up resources for high-impact areas with the greatest long-term value.
The Solution
Silvera's executive team recognized the need for evidence-based design that would truly meet their organization's evolving needs. Our design process began with Workplace Mapping to understand how Silvera's team collaborates and supports their community mission, moving beyond traditional office assumptions. This research revealed ways to boost collaboration, promote inclusion, and strengthen employee culture through smart design choices.
Strategic reuse of existing assets freed up resources for high-impact investments. Existing furniture was retained where it supported both functional and aesthetic goals, while new pieces were allocated only where they would deliver the greatest value through improved function, visual cohesion, and user experience.
The Human-Centred Lens
Insights from Workplace Mapping shaped a tailored activity-based working model that reflects Silvera's unique working DNA. This approach gives employees the flexibility to choose where and how they work, mirroring exceptional hospitality spaces designed to offer multiple, intentionally different experiences within the same setting.
Curated lighting, tactile finishes, and a welcoming reception create warmth and ease through hospitality-inspired elements. Residential comforts appear through soft seating, layered textiles, and a casual kitchen-lounge layout that invites familiarity and connection. A relaxed, earthy palette anchors the space with calm, grounded energy.
Rooted in wellness principles, the office emphasizes natural light, abundant plant life, and thoughtful acoustics to support focus and reduce distraction. Ergonomic furnishings and integrated greenery enhance both comfort and performance, creating a workplace designed to nurture cognitive, emotional, and social well-being.
Key Features
Curved meeting pod
A visually distinct meeting pod anchors the collaborative zone, offering acoustic separation and a unique architectural gesture within the open floor plan. Its curved form softens the space and reflects the project's focus on connection and purposeful design.
Integrated greenery
Biophilic elements are layered throughout the space to promote wellness and ease. From suspended planters to integrated vegetation near seating areas, these details support a sense of calm within the work environment.
Window bench seating
Positioned to maximize natural light, the built-in bench invites casual conversation or solo focus time. Custom cushions and thoughtful millwork details help the space feel both polished and accessible.
Central kitchen island and lounge
A welcoming hub designed to support informal connection and everyday gathering. Suspended planters bring greenery into the core of the space, while soft finishes and café-inspired details create a comfortable atmosphere.
Results
Project Credits
Engineers: Electrical: Alwin Friess, Mechanical: TMP – Jesse Sidders
Contractors: Labbe-Leech Interiors Ltd.: Kevin Domagala
Furniture: Contemporary Office Interiors – Maya Gorczyca
Landlord: Epic Investment Services – Holly Mark
Broker: Colliers – Jash Sandhu, Justin Mayerchak, Peter Mayerchak
Project Lead: Lindsey Kot
