Designing Company Culture During COVID-19

In a year where few companies have dared to undertake a major office expansion, Edit Studios is unveiling a space that eschews the conservative design aesthetic generally associated with wealth management firms in favor of a more modern and welcoming approach. Located in Vancouver’s iconic Marine Building and designed for BlueArck Private Equity, the space mixes the elegant comfort of French Country with the sophistication of a modern Parisian office. This innovative design move is a reflection of BlueArck’s corporate culture and its desire to foster a diverse and inclusive work environment.

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The lounge is warm, inviting, and comfortable with modern furniture and classic French lighting. Photo credit: Ema Peter Photography

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The entry highlights BlueArck's classic blue logo and leads the way into the lounge. Photo credit: Ema Peter Photography

The conventional dark woods and leather chesterfields of the typical private equity office have been swapped for a light, airy palette, herringbone floors, and luxurious drapery. The move towards a warmer atmosphere was a deliberate choice designed to create an environment more welcoming to attract a more equal mix of females into the profession. 

“From my first conversation with BlueArck, it was clear that the founder is committed to a culture of balance, not only between work and life but also in the composition of his team,” says Janay Koldingnes, Founder of Edit Studios. “The space had to reflect this balance. From soft draperies to cozy chairs and reading lamps, we created an environment of comfort and warmth, with all the functionality of the modern workplace.”

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Soft draperies wrap around what we're calling the Dining Room which allows users to cordon off the area for private meetings. Photo credit: Ema Peter Photography

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Custom brass door pulls highlight Edit Studios attention to detail. Photo credit: Ema Peter Photography

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The main meeting room offers privacy without completely disconnecting users from the space at large. Photo credit: Ema Peter Photography

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Cozy blue chairs create a place to pause, reflect, and reset during a hectic work day. Photo credit: Ema Peter Photography

The main entrance reveals a reception area that feels more like a living room for family and friends. Likewise, the modern bar is outfitted with all the comforts of the home highlighted by book-matched black and white marble with gold accents.

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The modern bar is outfitted with all the comforts of home highlighted by book matched black and white marble with gold accents. Photo credit: Ema Peter Photography

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Hidden doors masked behind intricate moldings hide the inner workings of the office inspired by hidden passageways from an old French Castle. Photo credit: Ema Peter Photography

Hidden doors masked behind intricate moldings hide the inner workings of the office Inspired by hidden passageways from an old French Castle.  Soft draperies provide a way for staff to share spaces that can be easily cordoned off for privacy. Molding and wainscoting accent the walls, while modern furniture pieces, rich marbles, and traditional French light fixtures juxtapose old with new.