134 Peter Street, Queen Richmond Centre (QRC) West is an award-winning example of innovation in creative adaptive re-use that integrated two historic brick-and-beam buildings in the construction of a new 17-storey, 300,000 s.f. state-of-the-art office building.  The high-performance workspace and impressive 75 foot high atrium lobby and event space contributed to the success of the development that focused on ground-breaking design, heritage preservation and tenant satisfaction.

QRC West is the result of executing one bold idea—to deeply respect the past while embracing a positive urban and sustainable future which together starts a critically important dialogue between them and the city. 

Photo Credit: Doublespace Photography

 

The architectural and structural engineering team created an aesthetically strong design solution that would “lift” the new building above the existing buildings. Nicknamed “Delta Frames”, these seven storey tall structures are the quintessential fusion of art meets science– “architecture”. The unique sculptural design of the Delta Frames is structurally efficient in each supporting 80,000KN of download and together resolving the lateral loads. 

Diagram Credit: Sweeny &Co. Architects Inc.

Of prime importance to the design is the clear extension towards the public realm in and through the building by linking Peter and Richmond.  This resulted in the creation of a very large urban room/atrium. This room or atrium is informed by our heritage, the new building above and the Deltas that link all has become a great public amenity.

Photo Credit: Doublespace Photography 

 

The architecture of QRC West is about business success as much as it is about a measurably better new workplace – it is more desirable, healthier, comfortable, and flexible, with well-planned private and collective space.


 

 

Demonstrating a better way forward, QRC West is an example of how a creative, sensitive adaptive reuse and bold urban intensification can exist in harmony. The architecture of the building leads rather than follows by responding directly to current and future tenant demands, and creating a high performance workplace of the future.