TEC Energy Office, Nestled within the I.M. Pei’s iconic Place Ville Marie tower, TEC Energy’s new offices blend the timeless charm of the 1960s aesthetic with the sleek lines of contemporary design. This project reimagines traditional open-plan workspaces, crafting an atmosphere that is both welcoming and refined.
© Alex Lesage
Upon entry, visitors are beckoned through a vestibule enclosed by a geometric screen wall composed of blocks inspired by the brutalist aesthetic of a nearby power station. This nod to Montreal’s architectural history serves as a distinct gateway into the workspace.
© Alex Lesage
The versatile kitchen and dining area, strategically positioned to capture natural light and offer sweeping vistas of downtown Montreal, serves as a hub for meetings and collaboration. With the urban skyline as its backdrop, this space becomes the dynamic centerpiece of the office.
© Alex Lesage
Promoting collaboration and interaction, the open-plan layout incorporates various breakout areas. A secluded lounge area designed for home comforts is juxtaposed with a greenery-filled nook and adjacent seating, fostering dialogue among colleagues while delineating workspaces. Additionally, an adjacent phone booth offers privacy and uninterrupted workflow for employees.
© David Dworkind
Acoustic considerations, vital for a conducive work environment, are seamlessly integrated throughout the space. Suspended felt baffles, echoing the rhythm of neighboring office towers, help to dampen ambient noise and conceal the exposed ceiling structure. Tectum acoustic panels, used as wainscoting in the open office, are broken up by 3 pieces of art by Caravan studio abstractly spelling out T.E.C.
© Alex Lesage
The two private offices, nestled in the glazed corner of the suite, draw inspiration from the distinctive form and materials of the Place Ville Marie Tower. Utilizing travertine and aluminum, these spaces exude a timeless elegance that resonates with the site’s iconic identity.
Project Info
Architects: MRDK
Country: Canada, Montreal
Area: 3330 ft²
Year: 2024
Photographs: Alex Lesage, David Dworkind
Design Team: David Dworkind, Benjamin Lavoie Laroche
Artwork: Caravane Studio
Florals: Studio Sveja
Madeline Brooks is a Projects Editor at Arch2O, where she has been shaping and refining architectural content since March 2024. With over a decade of experience in editorial work, she has curated, revised, and published an array of projects covering architecture, urbanism, and public space design. A graduate of the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, Madeline brings a strong academic foundation and a discerning editorial eye to each piece she oversees. Since joining Arch2O, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the platform’s editorial direction, with a focus on sustainability, social relevance, and cutting-edge design. Madeline excels at translating complex architectural ideas into clear, engaging stories that resonate with both industry professionals and general readers. She works closely with architects, designers, and global contributors to ensure every project is presented with clarity, depth, and compelling visual narrative. Her editorial leadership continues to elevate Arch2O’s role in global architectural dialogue.