MJM and Hansenbuilt transform derelict loft into wellness-focussed co-working space
by Stu Robarts | 20 Feb 2020
– Tessa McLoughlin
MJM Architect and Hansenbuilt Design have converted a derelict loft space in Victoria, Canada, into a co-working space and social club with a focus on health and connecting with others.
Kwench was founded by Tessa McLoughlin to evolve and expand what a co-working space could be, with the aim of making its users healthier and happier.
It is based on promoting a balance of knowledge, wellness, experiences, novelty, curiosity, and connection.
"I wanted to create a space where members had access to all the resources they need to live a full and balanced lifestyle," explained McLoughlin.
"Our mission is to elevate individual happiness and thus strengthen the health, safety and innovation of the world."
The 25,000sq ft (2,300sq m) venue is situated in the roof of one of Victoria’s heritage buildings, which was originally designed by British architect Francis Rattenbury to house the city's streetcars.
To make the concept work, two pitched roofs were merged together with a glass atrium, which is now the heart of the space containing the reception and a huge custom-designed circular sofa.
A variety of shared spaces are built around the atrium "to promote connections, socialising, and cross-pollination of knowledge and ideas." These include a full kitchen, dining areas, lounges and a bar.
There are also 24 private offices for 1-28 people, boardrooms, an art room, a studio that hosts regular classes and events, a fitness centre, meditation and library spaces, changing rooms and a bar.
The aim of the design was to create a place that inspires happiness. Original structural elements have been left exposed to help create unique spaces and new skylights installed throughout to bring in natural daylight.
A mix of brighter, more engaging colours is balanced with a calming, natural palette of wood, tile and fabrics.
MJM Architect Hansenbuilt Design loft Victoria Canada co-working co-working space
To create the atrium, two pitched roofs were merged together Credit: James Jones
A variety of shared social and work spaces are built around the atrium Credit: James Jones
This layout was aimed at promoting 'connections, socialising, and cross-pollination of knowledge and ideas' Credit: James Jones
Kwench is a co-working space and social club with a focus on health and connectivity Credit: James Jones
It was founded to evolve and expand what a co-working space could be Credit: James Jones
A large communal kitchen provides a space for socialising and informal chats Credit: James Jones
There is a studio that hosts regular classes and events Credit: James Jones
A library provides a quiet space for reading and relaxing Credit: James Jones
The overall concept is based on promoting a balance of knowledge, wellness, experiences, novelty, curiosity, and connection Credit: James Jones
A mix of brighter, more engaging colours is balanced with a calming, natural palette of wood, tile and fabrics Credit: James Jones
Original structural elements have been left exposed to help create unique spaces Credit: James Jones
New skylights have been installed throughout to bring in natural daylight Credit: James Jones
There are also 24 private offices for 1-28 people, shared workspaces and boardrooms Credit: James Jones
The variety of spaces caters for different sizes and types of meetings Credit: James Jones
The reception desk features a floaral installation Credit: James Jones
MJM Architect and Hansenbuilt Design have converted a derelict loft space in Victoria, Canada, into a co-working space and social club with a focus on health and connecting with others. Kwench was founded by Tessa McLoughlin to evolve and expand what a co-working space could be, with the aim of making its users healthier and happier. It is based on promoting a balance of knowledge, wellness, experiences, novelty, curiosity, and
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