McKesson Canada - Head Office

“The client wanted to get off to a strong start with Phase 1,” explains Robert Weleschuk, senior interior designer at GKC, “So we worked closely with their team to find and develop a cohesive concept that would appeal to employees after two years of working from home.” This design takes inspiration from nature and cottage life in Quebec, “as if you were in your own country house on the lakeshore”, says Weleschuk.

The project team opted for natural materials, as well as patterns, colours and textures that evoke nature. Natural light was optimized, and technological features were integrated to provide employees with a space conducive to collaboration, relaxation and well-being.

The lower level, which features a cafeteria, gym, recreation areas, training rooms and meeting rooms, makes abundant use of wood, exposed structures and warm tones associated with nature and the “Quebec chalet” ambience. Due to the presence of numerous open spaces and their layout, the team had to propose innovative solutions to attenuate sound reverberation in this part of the building. Acoustic screens were suspended from the ceiling, applied to the walls and integrated into the entertainment room floor—in many places, even the lampshades use materials that enhance acoustics within the space. A large canopy suspended over the cafeteria food court also helps to absorb noise, while reinforcing the informal, distinctive character of the area.

The concept continues on the upper floors (phases 2 and 3), where the team was faced with another challenge: the client wanted to retain as much of the old offices as possible, which meant dealing with a relatively linear layout. To break up this alignment, the project team imagined an organic decor combining materials, colours and textures inspired by the “nature and chalet” theme. From the relaxation areas and the coffee bars on each floor to the carpet patterns and the lighting fixtures, curves appear throughout, adding movement and creating atmospheres that are both soothing and engaging.

The project also incorporates LEED and WELL sustainable building principles, including low-flow toilets and faucets, certified flooring made from recycled materials, wellness rooms, energy-efficient lighting and natural wood veneers sourced from Quebec.