Bank Office, Toronto [CA]

EeStairs + Zeidler Partnership Architects

This bank office is one of the ten largest banking corporations in North America, with more than 3,000 staff at its headquarters in Toronto. The top floor contains hybrid learning and event facilities. The most striking internal architectural feature is the staircase in the atrium—curved in plan, with wave-form balustrade stringers—which leads to the academic floor.

Ian Franceschi and Bob Mindara of Zeidler Architecture created an initial conceptual stair-form with modelled clay, which was then converted into a more precise shape using 3D software. They then collaborated with EeStairs America Inc.'s in-house design specialists to develop a fully detailed, geometrically accurate form that was structurally secure.

The top edges of the steel stringers create wave-lines which transition smoothly into glass upper portions, ensuring that the outer edges of the wooden treads and risers are clearly visible. The unseen structural elements were the main design challenge, and Bob Mindara said: "EeStairs were the perfect partner to bring the concept to life, with countless discussions to resolve the complex design details."