June 29, 2023 – Like many companies, Ubisoft seeks to understand how to better balance office and remote work in a hybrid environment. The company recently opened a pilot space to test possible solutions before rolling out changes worldwide. Located in the company’s Montreal location, the largest of Ubisoft’s 45+ studios and the largest game studio in the world, the pilot space is located in a former textile factory that was originally constructed in 1904. The 650,000 square foot building has 4,500+ hybrid employees.
The goal of Ubisoft’s renovation was to create a space that would level up the workplace experience and bring employees together for connection and collaboration. Ubisoft’s global teams develop a deep and diverse portfolio of video games – the Montreal studio creates iconic brands such as Assassin’s Creed®, For Honor® and more. It is a company of enthusiasts eager to share, collaborate, innovate and make a positive impact on the future of gaming.
“I’m most proud of the employees in the way they’ve embraced this space. They’re going into the unknown by trusting us and our teams to be able to support them and their activities – and trusting that we have their wellbeing at heart,” said Patricia Karchemny, Ubisoft Senior Director, Real Estate and Procurement.
A key objective for the pilot space was to create spaces that support employees with the tools they need, while helping them feel comfortable and inspired to come into the office. The pilot space has a variety of choices in where and how to work, depending on preferences and the different activities needed to perform throughout the day. Ergonomic seating, opportunities for movement, spaces for focus and acoustic spaces designed for privacy help create the ideal settings for comfort and productivity.
It was essential to create welcoming, inspiring spaces that reflect Ubisoft’s fun and playfulness. Social spaces designed with flexibility and modularity – for both formal and informal gatherings – entice people seeking a comfortable workplace to come into the office. Neighborhood environments create stronger team bonds, with areas for connecting and catching up, as well as working, brainstorming and meeting. The rooftop terrace and café offer opportunities for a variety of diverse group activities and events – from celebrations to wine tasting to beehive workshops. The environmental impact of their business was an important driver for Ubisoft. The pilot space optimizes on-site power consumption and contributes to company carbon neutrality goals. Ubisoft's commitment to the environment extends to choosing products that optimize the use of resources, reduce waste, and encourage a circular economy. The Ubisoft space was designed by the in-house Ubisoft Design Team and support by Haworth’s dealer, Cime Business Environments.
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Haworth helps create inspirational spaces. As a leading global furniture maker, the company is steeped in workplace expertise that fuels innovative designs for optimal performance. Haworth is a values-driven, family company with an entrepreneurial spirit and a design-forward approach. As a multicultural organization, the company embraces the strength that comes from diversity of thought. At Haworth, we believe great spaces empower people to thrive. Founded in 1948, Haworth operates in more than 150 countries through a global network of 400 dealers and 8,000 employees. Headquartered in Holland, Michigan, U.S.A, the company has sales of $2.5 billion USD.