Photo credit: Micheal Elkan
The new Fast + Epp building ? designed by f2a architecture ? aims to efficiently deliver the necessities for its engineers, within a compact volume.

By subtracting two patios, a third level atrium, and a loading bay from the zoning envelope, the 1482.5 m2 project exactly meets bylaws.

The exterior of this noble box is completed with trellises and screens, appearing as a prism of varying opacity, revealing its interior life, mass timber structure, climbing plants, and exposed systems.
Photo credit: Micheal Elkan
Photo credit: Micheal Elkan
A concise core conveys people and utilities between 5 levels. Its open floor plate and flush glazing connects the building to the streetscape on the lower levels and to the mountainscapes above. All three suites are given natural ventilation via operable windows on the north and south facades. Once inside the main office floor on level three, the office gradually opens in a sequence to the north: the reception parallels the core, opens to a translucent conference room, then reveals a narrow two-storey view to the west. The atrium connects the two office levels. Views expand from fourth level to south, west, and north, and the space opens to north and south patios.
Photo credit: Austin Hawkins
From the patios, a further degree of opening offers a mountainous experience of the cityscape. In this way, connection between the cityscape, its hinterland, and the inhabitants of the building increase as a visitor...