BANK OF MONTREAL, LIBERTY VILLAGE

The Bank of Montreal (BMO), Liberty Village retail bank branch is located in one of the fastest growing urban communities in Toronto. The ideal location is close to shopping and an active nightlife, not to mention the convenient access to the downtown core. Nestled amongst many industrial buildings of a bygone era and located in the Liberty Market Building which was transformed into a retail and commercial complex, including the BMO as one of the tenants.

The challenge for this retrofit project involved converting a factory space into a commercial space accommodating current BMO Design Standards. The project team worked on augmenting the building’s unique spatial quality without compromising the functional needs of the retail branch. The exposed ceiling, polished concrete floors, glazed screens and doors throughout the banking hall echo industrial look, while the sculptural lighting, and wood elements warm up the space. The resulting design seamlessly blends in the past and the present by showcasing existing architectural elements and combining them with modern and minimalist materials. The space is open, uncluttered, and inviting.

This urban retrofit project was not only a success as a project in itself, but proved to be a stepping stone for BMO to take a new contemporary approach in their retail banking design. KMA continues is 20 year relationship with BMO as their Lead Standards and Design Consultants.