Kitspace's strategic role in developing And-Co, Vancouver's unique flex office community
Overview
Kitspace played a pivotal role in transforming the podium and retail units of 620 Cardero St, a mixed-use building in Coal Harbour, Vancouver, into And-Co, a destination-focused, flex office community. At the permitting stage, Kitspace suggested a strategic shift to the building owners, proposing that they move away from conventional office suites and instead create a workspace that offered an amenity-rich, flexible work environment. This vision helped shape And-Co into a premium co-working space that supports work-life balance, and positions itself as a destination for corporates, creatives, and entrepreneurs alike.
Kitspace’s influence extended beyond strategy; the company oversaw both the design and execution of the project, ensuring that it reflected global standards in workspaces, akin to other renowned international destinations such as NeueHouse in New York.
The Challenge
The original plan for 620 Cardero St called for disconnected office suites and commercial retail units. Kitspace recognized that this model was outdated, particularly in a post-pandemic world where flexibility, community, and wellness were becoming essential elements of modern work environments.
To position the building as a premier work destination in downtown Vancouver, Kitspace needed to:
- Reimagine the use of space to offer a more dynamic, connected experience.
- Incorporate global workplace trends such as modularity, wellness, and sustainability.
- Develop a flexible infrastructure that would adapt to changing business needs.
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Kitspace’s Solution
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- Strategic Design Concept Kitspace convinced the building owners to pivot from conventional office units to a flexible, integrated office community. Inspired by similar projects around the world, Kitspace advocated for a space where work, wellness, and leisure could coexist. This included:
- A three-storey forum and gallery space, acting as the social and professional hub.
- Integration of wellness features like yoga and fitness studios.
- Event and meeting spaces that supported diverse uses, from business meetings to social events.
- Collaboration with BVN Architecture Kitspace brought on board BVN, a globally renowned design firm, to help define the space. BVN’s innovative approach, paired with Kitspace’s practical knowledge of modular systems, led to the creation of a turnkey offering that balanced flexibility with aesthetic appeal. This collaboration resulted in a WELL Certified™ Platinum space, setting new standards for workplace wellness and sustainability in Vancouver.
- Off-Site Manufacturing and Modular Design Beyond the conceptual phase, Kitspace was responsible for the manufacturing of bespoke building components. Using an intricate modular system, these components were manufactured off-site and combined on-site, ensuring efficiency and precision during the build. The modular approach also future-proofed the space, allowing for reconfiguration as the needs of tenants evolved.
- Amenity-Rich Experience And-Co was designed to cater to a wide range of professionals, offering amenities that support work-life balance. These include a bespoke on-site restaurant (Nox), wellness spaces, event venues, and state-of-the-art offices. Kitspace’s input ensured that each amenity contributed to a cohesive, community-focused environment.
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The Outcome
Kitspace’s strategic intervention and execution helped transform And-Co into a unique, destination-based office community that offers an exceptional work experience. The project has become a benchmark for flexible, wellness-centered workspaces in Vancouver, attracting a diverse membership base ranging from corporate teams to freelancers.
- Scalable Design: The modular system allowed for flexibility in space usage, ensuring the space could adapt to future business needs.
- Enhanced Tenant Experience: By incorporating wellness, dining, and event spaces, And-Co provides a holistic experience that fosters productivity, collaboration, and community.
- Industry Recognition: And-Co has garnered recognition for its innovative approach to workspace design, becoming a finalist in the 2024 Business Distinction Awards for the Unique-to-Vancouver category.
Why Kitspace Was the Right Partner?
Kitspace's ability to blend strategic vision with operational execution made them the ideal partner to transform And-Co into a premium office destination.
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Their recommendation to rethink the building’s original use and pursue an amenity-rich, community-focused strategy positioned the project at the forefront of modern workplace design. Kitspace’s offsite modular manufacturing expertise also ensured that the ambitious design, including the signature three-story forum, was delivered efficiently and with precision.
Conclusion
Kitspace’s involvement was instrumental in transforming a conventional office model into a thriving, premium co-working destination. By advocating for a design that integrated work, wellness, and social life, Kitspace helped set a new standard for what office environments can be, positioning And-Co as a leader in the growing trend of work-life balanced spaces. This case highlights Kitspace’s expertise in both strategic design and modular manufacturing, making them a key player in the future of flexible workspaces.
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