When Granite homes needed a new head office and state-of-the-art design studio, the Guelph-based builder decided to create a space that reflected the company’s commitment to superior design, timeless architecture and top-quality construction.
Instead of building something brand new, they undertook an adaptive reuse project that transformed a former CN Rail building into a unique creative office space and 2,700 square foot Design Studio, open since the summer of 2016.
Now the award-winning company is getting ready to unveil the next phase of what will be a 45,000 square foot mixed-use development called The Junction.
Named after the vibrant Junction neighbourhood, Granite Homes VP Business Development Mike Taylor explains that the project will eventually include three buildings – two state-of- the-art new-builds and the already- renovated CN Rail structure.
The first new structure will welcome its first tenants this September.
Within this building is Platform @ The Junction, Guelph’s first co-working space. The 8,500 square foot state-of- the-art space will offer members of the city’s creative, tech, and professional services sectors access to flexible and affordable office space and an opportunity to connect.
“There are a lot of young companies in Guelph that may not have the resources to enter into a traditional lease. This is an opportunity for them to get into a great space without having to make a long-term commitment,” says Taylor.
Lease agreements at Platform @ The Junction will begin with just a six-month commitment.
The two-storey building offers 35 private offices suitable for up to four workers. Each office comes equipped with a full suite of designer furniture. Tenants will also have access to high- speed internet, a large lounge area with couches, café tables, a coffee bar and charging station, as well as two state-of- the-art boardrooms and a shared kitchen.
Tenants will also enjoy plenty of on-site parking including electric car charging and bicycle parking stations, and great visibility from Edinburgh Road – one of the city’s main thoroughfares.
The building is designed with the same character and architectural style as the converted CN Rail building. “It has high ceilings, large windows, polished concrete floors, glass partitions, and we’re bringing some brick inside,” says Taylor. “It’s got that whole creative office feel, but will also be designed so people can focus on what they do best, which is their business.”
Setting up shop in a coworking environment offers many benefits, says Taylor, beyond flexible lease terms and affordable space.“It’s a great opportunity to meet like-minded business people and develop relationships with other professionals.”
And it’s a great opportunity to be part of one of Guelph’s most vibrant urban neighbourhoods, one that is minutes from downtown and the University of Guelph campus.The Junction will also include an on-site restaurant, which Taylor hopes will become a community hub.
The Junction is the first large-scale commercial development undertaken by Granite Homes, which has established itself as one of the leading builders of luxury homes in Guelph and surrounding communities since 2001.
“Granite Homes is known for innovation and design, and we are doing that here,”Taylor says. “The Junction will incorporate everything creative companies are looking for in a space.”
To learn more about Platform @ The Junction visit www.guelphjunction.ca
Read the full feature on living, working, and doing business in the City of Guelph through our latest Globe & Mail insert here.
