In our post-pandemic world, many companies face the challenge of enticing employees back into the office. While some companies lean on incentives and double down on in-office requirements, forward-thinking companies like Plus Company have expanded their approach with more imaginative and dynamic methods—transforming the very DNA of their workspaces. Considering their roots as a network of creative agencies who are fueled by an innate understanding of culture, technology, and data, this is right on track with their drive to deliver magic, no matter the occasion.
CDI partnered with Plus Company to revitalize their Vancouver, Yaletown office. By incorporating their vibrant, collaborative culture into furniture design, CDI created flexible, welcoming, and engaging spaces that employees would enjoy returning to after months of remote work.
Plus Company’s office had a few tired and uninviting spaces, so they knew that a deep refresh was in order. Two significant challenges stood in their way—the spaces were multipurpose, and they lacked clear, detailed drawings of the space to begin the design process. The CDI team—led by Derek Burrowes—led the way with confidence and curiosity, exploring the space through a call and on-site visit to take detailed measurements and craft potential layouts from scratch.
Derek explained. “The space had unique features, such as angled walls and large bleachers, which posed a challenge for accurate planning. We put a lot of effort into capturing these details to recreate the existing layout and develop a plan.”
Once the 'before' of the Plus Company office was established, CDI went to work on a youthful and invigorating furniture design that matched the company culture. Versatile, adaptable spaces were a top priority since brainstorming sessions, client meetings, presentations, huddle groups, and more all needed to happen within them. The CDI team incorporated furniture that supported these activities while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic that tied in with the bold mural above the town hall-style bleachers in the space.
"There is this unique, cool graphic on the wall connected with the local Indigenous culture of the West Coast," Derek noted. "It featured vibrant colors, and we ensured that the furniture didn’t compete with it but enhanced the overall look."
In the large multipurpose room, the design centered around maximizing space and enhancing the functionality. Adding tables right up to the lowest level of the bleachers created a hybrid space that could be used for large gatherings and as a collaborative work zone. The result was a more agile environment where teams could quickly shift from formal meetings to casual sessions.
"We needed to work closely with the architecture to provide flexible furnishings that could support various configurations, as the exact use of the event space wasn't clear and must adapt to whatever requirements come up."
Smaller offices in the space were designed to comfortably bring smaller groups together. These spaces allowed creatives to step away from their desks to sketch ideas and brainstorm while customer service staff took calls in private.
Flexibility and comfort were at the core of CDI's furniture recommendations for Plus Company. In one of the lounge rooms, cozy couches were selected to provide a sense of relaxation and easy connection. Employees could meet for informal meetings or kick back for deep work sessions. When CDI suggested a standing-height table, the Plus Company team was eager to try something new in the space. The CDI team had seen how many of their client's employees loved the possibility of different postures and movement options, so not only did they incorporate a standing-height table but also included a few rocking chairs nearby for additional flexibility.
Instead of providing an overall budget for the project, CDI itemized each space and piece of furniture, giving Plus Company a clearer understanding of the pricing. This allowed the team to prioritize their top needs and pick and choose pieces strategically, all while staying within budget. Once Plus Company approved the selections, CDI made another site visit to coordinate finishes and ensure that the final options complemented the space, color scheme, lighting, and desired functionality.
Plus Company hosted a welcome week to introduce the new space to their team, allowing everyone to experience the transformation firsthand. The fresh, thoughtfully designed environment was more than just a facelift; it was a space specifically designed to support the company’s creative culture and growing needs.
"Yaletown has been reimagined as a sleek, boutique community, featuring two blocks of converted warehouse buildings turned into stylish lofts and trendy retail spaces, surrounded by luxury high-rises and green spaces along the seawall," Derek explained. The new office setup brought this fresh vibe into the space's interior. "It wasn't just the same old environment—it was something fresh, specifically designed for them."
From the bleacher-style seating that fostered collaboration to the vibrant finishes that reflected the company’s energy, CDI’s furniture solutions helped breathe new life into Plus Company’s office, resulting in a workplace that was not only functional but also fun and energizing.
Are you ready to revive your office space? Sign up for a free consultation with the CDI team today and discover how your workspace could inspire collaboration, creativity, and comfort.