Interac Toronto Corporate Headquarters: A dynamic workspace designed for collaboration, growth, and innovation

A leader in debit card services, Interac’s new space supports the rapidly growing organization and the unique needs of its software engineers and developers.

Preliminary studies and workshops were conducted to develop a new way of working for Interac. The goal was to optimize their real estate portfolio, enhance staff engagement, and support employee recruitment and retention.

The preliminary workplace strategy called for zero offices and a floorplan that housed multiple meeting rooms, collaboration spaces, touchdown stations, and areas for hot-desking, while incorporating assigned seating for those who prefer a more permanent workstation.

Following the successful completion of the pilot project, Interac decided to relocate once their lease expired. An extensive analysis of potential locations was conducted, with test-fit plans and design studies developed across six AAA buildings in the downtown Toronto core. The Royal Bank Plaza was ultimately selected to be Interac’s new premises.

The open plan provides a variety of informal meeting areas and touchdown spots throughout the premises, supporting the highly collaborative nature of the team. Flexible workspaces provide confidentiality and allow for concentrated work.

The new furniture standards provide all employees with task-specific tools and allow for increased efficiency and effectiveness. An adaptive planning strategy fosters future growth of the organization with no impact on the existing architecture and minimal disruption to the current work environment.

Other features include a centralized client area, reception, and meeting facilities, which were designed to embrace the unique architecture of the structure.

Artists were also commissioned to create pieces that embody Interac’s brand and identity. The early use of experiential graphics tells the story of Interac as a household name in the consumer market for money transfer systems and software. Art pieces reflect Interac’s national identity through the lens of diverse neighbourhoods and regions, each with its own unique characteristics. A sculptural cross-Canada photographic series referencing the different regions is backlit to further enhance the space.