Récréation

Québec
Corporate
2024

A Creative Playground

The Récréation project revolves around the complete transformation of a previously underutilized ground floor into a versatile, collaborative environment for employees. The space is conceived as a neutral canvas, enlivened by colorful, graphic gestures that reflect the distinct identities of Récréation and its sister firm, Hint.

The project unfolds as a deliberate play of contrasts: neutral base materials punctuated with bold color, simple forms paired with rich functionality, shared zones alongside intimate pockets. The communal table at the front, flexible areas, and on-site graphic interventions express a clear ambition: to create a lively, adaptable workplace deeply rooted in the values of creativity, collaboration, and play that define both Récréation and Hint.

At the heart of the space, a large plywood platform anchors the central area. This multifunctional feature accommodates group creative sessions, casual breaks, and large-scale workshops alike. Hidden drawers within the platform store cushions and accessories, allowing the space to be quickly reconfigured into a photo studio or a festive area. This design embodies Récréation’s playful and adaptable spirit, while maintaining a clean, contemporary aesthetic.

Surrounding this central hub are various collaborative zones, designed as minimalist volumes in light wood. These enclaves feature tables and benches for informal meetings, with the option to close doors for added acoustic privacy. At the front, a bright lounge near expansive windows offers comfortable seating and opens onto surrounding greenery. Green accents visually connect the interior with the exterior landscape, reinforcing the relationship between the workspace and its natural environment.

Defining Space Through Material

Materiality plays a key role in shaping the project: polished concrete floors and exposed ceilings reveal the building’s structure, emphasizing authenticity and constructive simplicity. Plywood, chosen for its warmth and clarity, supports the brand’s youthful and playful image, while occasional pops of color animate the space.

Hint, located at the back of the ground floor, occupies a distinct yet visually connected zone. Designed for five employees, the space benefits from natural light and careful acoustic insulation. Its vivid orange wall, drawn from the agency’s corporate palette, acts as a strong visual marker visible from the common area. Seen through the glass partition, it symbolizes both Hint’s presence and the intentional permeability between the two entities.