Co-operators Headquarters

Co-operators’ new headquarters unites 1,200 employees from five southern Ontario locations. Cofounder Albert Savage envisioned the insurance and financial services cooperative as “an acorn that will grow into one of the greatest oak trees of the co-operative movement.” This vision of growth and community guided HOK’s design of a workplace built for sustainability, well-being and hybrid work.

The interior reflects Guelph’s natural landscape. A signature curved walnut wall guides visitors from the entry to a café that connects to the company’s agricultural roots through thoughtful details like felt panels featuring tractor-tire tracks. Locally quarried limestone feature walls and a visual timeline trace the company’s evolution since 1967. The reception area’s arboretum-inspired aesthetic pays tribute to the University of Guelph’s renowned Arboretum. A custom topographical rug depicts the meeting of local rivers, while a digital wall shares Co-operators’ sustainability story.

Natural light floods the workplace through floor-to-ceiling windows that automatically adjust their tint throughout the day to manage glare and heat gain. The open design features glass-fronted offices and meeting spaces organized around a central atrium, fostering transparency and connection. Employees can choose from a variety of work settings—from collaborative zones to quiet focus areas, wellness spaces to social hubs—with sit-stand desks providing ergonomic flexibility. Hybrid meeting rooms and a multipurpose town hall host in-person and virtual gatherings of various sizes. A central café and fitness center round out the amenities.

Co-operators has been carbon neutral since 2020. This LEED Gold headquarters advances its goals to cut emissions 45% by 2030 and reach net zero by 2040. The all-electric facility has a rooftop solar array generating 9% of its energy, LED lighting systems with occupancy sensors and efficient Variable Refrigerant Flow mechanical systems with water recovery. These features combine to cut heating demands by 60% and achieve 40% better energy performance than Ontario’s standard for all-electric buildings. The project team further minimized the carbon impact through local Canadian sourcing, low-carbon materials, sustainable furnishings and strategic decommissioning practices.

Pursuing WELL Platinum certification, the design puts employee wellness at its core. The abundant natural light works with an adaptive circadian lighting system to support natural rhythms and alertness. Natural materials and finishes create a healthy indoor environment.

The biophilic design approach integrates natural elements throughout the headquarters. A striking 34-foot-wide living wall featuring 3,000 plants arranged in a V-shaped pattern inspired by the company’s logo anchors the library space. White oak and walnut are prominently featured, while a curated color palette helps with wayfinding. Outdoor walking trails and gathering spaces strengthen the connection to the surrounding environment.

The workspace welcomes and supports all employees. Working with accessibility experts and Co-operators’ IDEA team, HOK developed a design that exceeded standards for inclusivity. Quiet zones with soft lighting, muted colors and sound-dampening materials support neurodivergent employees. Universal washrooms and clear wayfinding enhance accessibility.

HOK provided interior design, sustainable design and WELL consulting services.