Neptune Terminals
Aura successfully transformed Neptune Terminals’ office to reflect its brand identity while enhancing staff collaboration and creating elevated client-facing areas for executive functions.
Size
13,050 SQFT
Industry
Others
Location
Metro Vancouver
Completed
2024
Neptune Terminals, a leading bulk shipping terminal at the Port of Vancouver with over 50 years of experience, partnered with Aura for the design and construction of their new office. With a focus on operational excellence, Neptune sought Aura’s expertise to create a workplace that enhances functionality for its team while reflecting its core values. Aura delivered a thoughtfully designed office that supports productivity, encourages collaboration, and provides a refined environment for client meetings and executive events, ensuring the space aligns seamlessly with Neptune’s business objectives and people-centric goals.
The Challenge
Aura was tasked with transforming a previously divided full floorplate into a cohesive and functional workplace for Neptune Terminals. The space, once occupied by three separate tenants, presented a unique challenge, merging distinct layouts into a seamless workplace that reflected Neptune’s vision. Furthermore, there was a need to include elevated client-facing and executive areas, incorporating sleek finishes and thoughtful design to support meetings and events.
Aura was tasked with transforming these challenges into opportunities, reimagining the space to deliver a seamless, unified design that reflected Neptune Terminals’ brand identity while enhancing functionality and usability.
Process
Aura approached the project with a comprehensive design strategy that integrated Neptune Terminals’ branding while addressing the functional needs of staff and clients. Central to the strategy was the use of the company’s wave logo and brand colors, which were thoughtfully incorporated into design elements. For instance, custom illustrations depicting Neptune’s port operations became key visual features, highlighting the company’s core business activities. The wave motif was brought to life in the reception area through an acoustic felt ceiling installation, adding an aesthetic touch but also improving sound control in the expansive two-story atrium.
The design also includes a dedicated executive area featuring a state-of-the-art boardroom, a kitchenette, and a lounge space to accommodate high-level meetings and events. To further enhance staff experience, an elevated staff lounge was designed as a central gathering place, creating a sense of community. The workspace is also equipped with three coffee stations, strategically located to ensure convenience for all users. A dedicated shower facility was incorporated to support employees who use the gym, commute actively, or need to refresh after site visits.
A key component of the project was unifying three separate units into a seamless office environment. Aura achieved this by strategically phasing the construction, prioritizing the executive offices to accommodate an accelerated move-in timeline.
Phase 1, consisting of the executive offices, was completed in just five weeks, delivered even faster than originally promised, to ensure Neptune could transition without incurring double rent. Phase 2, encompassing the remaining two units, staff lounge, and additional office spaces, followed with a two-month timeline. By gaining early access to these areas during Phase 1, Aura was able to begin demolition ahead of schedule, further optimizing the project timeline.
Additionally, material selection played a crucial role in expediting the process, with locally sourced materials chosen for their availability and cost-effectiveness, minimizing lead times while maintaining high-quality design.
The completed workspace is a bright, welcoming, and highly functional environment. Staff now enjoy a cohesive and collaborative workspace, with dedicated areas that encourage interaction and community. The executive area elevates the company’s ability to host clients, providing a polished and professional setting forevents. This transformation has not only resolved the initial challenges but also positioned Neptune Terminals for long-term success in its operations and employee engagement.
Ready to elevate your firm’s workspace?
Connect with Aura today to unlock the potential of your office environment. Whether you’re seeking enhanced efficiency, client-centric design, or a space that reflects your firm’s prestige, our expertise can bring your vision to life. Contact Us to begin your journey towards a tailored, optimized workspace.