
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
Western Canada’s leading business association since 1887, located within the World Trade Centre in Vancouver.
Size
1,200 SQFT
Industry
Non-Profit
Location
Metro Vancouver

Just because a business association has existed since the late 19th Century doesn’t mean it has to remain figuratively stuck in place — though in the literal sense, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade had that very problem. Renewing their existing lease in a tight market for commercial space meant they faced the challenge of updating an office space that had grown outdated in both aesthetic and practical functions.
Giving The Client All The Options They Need
Aura’s solution to the Board’s needs began with a scenario planning session that offered a multitude of budget options and layout possibilities. Transitioning into the updated space meant fulfilling the Board’s need to have a temporary “swing space” to do business while their office was being renovated, making that short-term setup as unburdened and technologically adaptable as possible — a task Aura met handily even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. With an optimized and intuitive floor plan and a number of visual flourishes — including herringbone wood floors, naturalistic black and green colour accents, and an eye-catching and welcoming reception area — the Board office’s new look proved a resounding success.
The GVBT was coming up to the end of its lease agreement when it connected with Aura. It was faced with the decision to renew its lease or move into a new location altogether. At the time, the market was tight in terms of vacant space. Without a lot of great options to relocate to, the decision to stay in the same spot became the apparent choice, only it was time for some changes.
The GVBT’s existing space didn’t reflect the team or the association’s purpose at all. Not only did the space feel fairly dull, uninspiring, and dated in terms of its finishes, but it didn’t cater well as an event space. Because the team regularly hosts member and client events, it was itching for dedicated and flexible areas for collaboration. The GVBT was also ready to update the technology in its conference rooms so staff could enjoy more seamless meetings.
The GVBT selected aura based on our upfront consultation that came at no risk or obligation. The first thing we did was dive straight into scenario planning. We presented them with different scenarios at different budget points, arming them with plenty of information on what to consider, what to stay away from, and helping them determine their square footage needs.
With all this information, making the decision to stay in its space was easy. The next thing Aura did was assist them with every step of the process of transitioning into their temporary swing space. That entailed helping them find and select a swing space, getting it all set up, and making sure they had all the technology and connections to resume business as usual. Despite having a very specific timeline to adhere to for moving in and out of the swing space, Aura made the transition as seamless as possible. Even during the setbacks of the COVID-19 pandemic we were able to get the entire project done on time.
Our intention was to transform the GVBT’s dated space into a contemporary one by incorporating west coast design elements for a brighter and more inviting space. Working with the existing angles of the building, we were able to accommodate the required mix of private offices and workstations while creating a floorplan that made sense to the end-user.
The need for collaboration, socialization was solved with the addition of a staff room, breakout areas, and large boardrooms complete with a sliding door and adaptable furniture for splitting the room into two as needed. We considered the need for privacy and added in a phone booth to make those confidential conversations more comfortable for staff.
Aside from changing up the flow and use of the office space, the combination of the following features contributed to the office’s new look and feel:
- Herringbone wood flooring
- Plain and simple grey carpet that helped highlight other materials in the office
- Green colours as well as black for accenting
- Concrete plaster finishes
- A reception area complete with a green wall and wood tambour panels
Thanks to the work we did together, The GVBT was able to:
- Stay put and avoid the potentially higher leasing costs of moving into a new building
- Enjoy a new space that better represents its purpose and boosts productivity
- Take pride in an office that leaves a stronger impression on visitors
The new collaborative spaces and updated technology have been well received by excited staff, and the new reception has received regular compliments as a welcoming entrance by guests and members.

"We chose to work with Aura because of their great design and very cost effective solution."



Ready to Reimagine Your Office Space?
Book a free consultation and discover how our design-build approach can help you create an office that reflects your culture, supports your team, and leaves a lasting impression.