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Montreal-based ISSASTUDIO redesigned Maison Lavande’s administrative centre in Saint-Eustache, Que. The family-run agro-tourism and lavender perfumery company expanded its production centre, La Fabrique des Filles, with the aim to centralize design activities. ISSASTUDIO, known for its biophilic design expertise, handled the interior design, while Syscomax managed the architectural services.
As Maison Lavande left behind its rural setting for an industrial area, creating a nature-centric workspace became crucial for employee well-being. Syscomax proposed integrating defined geometric lines, blending country and Scandinavian elements to match the company logo.
ISSASTUDIO’s design brief aimed for a sustainable, welcoming, and cohesive layout that did not take on the rural esthetic codes linked to La Maison Lavande. Further, balancing the family’s connection to nature, the challenge was to incorporate natural shapes and colours into the project, creating an environment highlighting the site’s architecture, identity, and natural surroundings.
The entrance features a simple design with low ceilings, intentionally contrasted with the expansive atrium, referred to by the designers as the “clearing.” The atrium, featuring varying ceiling levels, welcomes visitors with a cathedral ceiling and a central skylight. This area houses lounges, a cafe, and a large conference room.
Administrative offices, with a mix of closed and open spaces, are positioned at the rear of the atrium. Further, the use of collaborative furniture encourages discussions, while the inclusion of acoustic booths provides confidential spaces. Artificial lighting adapts to daylight conditions, and in the evening, the atrium provides a spot to enjoy the sunset.
A staircase in the atrium leads to the garden level, featuring large windows, a cafeteria, and transitional spaces to the factory, including changing rooms, laundry rooms, and a fitness room for employees. Sustainable material choices, centred around wood and the use of neutral colours, aim to create harmony with nature. The atrium ceiling, adorned with shingled-look acoustic panels, pays homage to the country esthetic while controlling sound reverberations. The woodwork, with stone and flora elements, includes plants, trees, and a staircase garden, allowing employees to personalize the space with meaningful decor.
