STRIDES
A Community-Driven Space
Strides is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children, youth, and families through developmental services, mental health support, and community programs. Strides offers a range of essential services, from therapy and treatment to youth programming, life skills training, and volunteer opportunities.
Their new space at 100 Consilium Place is more than an office—it's a community hub designed to provide a safe, and engaging environment for the people they serve.
PROJECT
31,358 Sq. Ft.
ADDRESS
100 Consilium Pl, Scarborough
REQUIREMENTS
A SPACE FOR EVERYONE
Strides needed a multifunctional environment that could serve a diverse range of clients, including young children, teenagers, families, and staff. The design had to balance professional workspaces with vibrant, interactive areas that fostered engagement and support.
A COMMUNITY HUB, NOT JUST AN OFFICE
This wasn't just an office renovation—it was about creating a space where individuals felt comfortable, supported, and empowered. The challenge was designing a facility that felt welcoming while also prioritizing security, accessibility, and inclusivity.
A PLACE WHERE PEOPLE THRIVE
For many, Strides is a second home. The new space needed to reflect warmth, energy, and optimism, so that every visitor, whether a child, teenager, or caregiver, felt at ease from the moment they stepped inside.
Creating a space for Strides meant reimagining traditional office design. Instead of corporate structures, we focused on building a generational space—one that could adapt to the needs of different age groups while promoting interaction, learning, and well-being.
SOLUTION
We designed a welcoming and versatile space that embodies Strides’ commitment to community, support, and personal growth.
Every element was thoughtfully considered, blending warm, inclusive environments with functional areas that foster connection, healing, and empowerment for children, youth, families, and staff alike.
A SPACE FOR EVERYONE
DESIGNING WITH PURPOSE
Understanding Strides’ diverse audience was key to shaping the space. Through in-depth interviews with children, families, and staff, we gathered insights on their needs, concerns, and aspirations.
From colour choices to furniture selection, every detail was intentional to make sure that younger children had sensory-friendly areas, teenagers had engaging social spaces, and families had comfortable environments for consultations and support.
CREATING SAFE & FUNCTIONAL SPACES
A SPACE FOR EVERYONE
Security and accessibility were critical in designing the layout. Given the nature of the services Strides provides, there was a strong focus on controlled access areas, ensuring private sessions could take place without interruptions while maintaining an open and inviting atmosphere in communal areas.
A COMMUNITY HUB, NOT JUST AN OFFICE
THE ZONE: A SPACE FOR YOUTH
One of the standout areas of the new design is The Zone—a dedicated space tailored for teenagers and young adults. Featuring a pool table, video games, and comfortable seating, this area encourages social interaction and provides a much-needed retreat for youth navigating personal challenges.
During the design process, we engaged directly with the teenagers, asking them:
"What do you want to see in your space?"
Their answers shaped everything from colour choices to furniture selection, ensuring The Zone truly reflected their needs and preferences.
A COMMUNITY HUB, NOT JUST AN OFFICE
ENGAGING, NOT INTIMIDATING
Because Strides provides mental health services, it was essential that the space didn’t feel clinical or overwhelming. We carefully avoided cold, sterile environments and instead used warm tones, natural textures, and open layouts to create a sense of comfort and ease.
A PLACE WHERE PEOPLE THRIVE
COLLABORATION SPACES FOR STAFF
Beyond serving the public, the design also needed to support Strides’ team of professionals, which includes youth workers, therapists, social workers, and speech-language pathologists. We created collaborative spaces that encourage teamwork while ensuring quiet areas for focused work and private consultations.
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED
