When EcoVadis, a global leader in sustainability and reporting solutions, set out to redesign their 16,000 sq. ft. downtown Toronto office, they had one clear goal: create a workspace that reflected their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
The result? A stunning, modern workspace designed to inspire and perform—using 95% pre-owned and remanufactured furnishings. It shows what’s possible when companies embrace the principles of the circular economy, and it’s no surprise this project is a finalist for the Canadian CoreNet REMmy Awards, which celebrates workplace excellence in commercial real estate.
But the story of this transformation goes beyond design. It’s about the cultural and economic benefits of adopting sustainable practices in the workplace, all while achieving impressive cost savings.
ECOVADIS: A SUSTAINABILITY LEADER IN ACTION
EcoVadis approached us with a bold vision: reduce waste, cut costs, and design a workspace that embodies their values. Together with Syllable Design, the creative powerhouse behind the project, we brought this vision to life.
The team focused on a hybrid furnishing strategy, blending pre-owned, remanufactured, and a small selection of new furniture to align with EcoVadis’ sustainability goals. This approach achieved:
- Project Impact: Achieved 43% cost savings compared to a new furniture only approach by incorporating 95% remanufactured and pre-owned furniture across 16,000 sq/ft
- Cultural Connection: Employees value spaces that reflect their company’s sustainability mission
- Recognition: Finalist for the CoreNet REMmy Awards for workplace excellence
- Media Mentions: Toronto’s Globe & Mail
The final design is a vibrant, functional space where employees feel connected to a larger purpose.
How was it done? Drawing inspiration from nature, Syllable Design crafted an office space that combined organic textures with a sleek, professional aesthetic, perfectly embodying EcoVadis’ innovative spirit. To bring this vision to life, Envirotech curated high-quality pre-owned furnishings from three project sites in California, New York, and Philadelphia, alongside remanufactured Herman Miller task seating expertly rebuilt at their Mississauga facility. The result was a seamless blend of elements that came together to create a cohesive, modern workspace. Learn more about the process in our Circular Procurement Approach for Sustainable Office Furniture Solutions.
WHY RETURN-TO-WORK EMPLOYEES ARE BEHIND THE STORY OF SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainability isn’t just about cost savings or environmental impact—it’s about creating a workplace culture that resonates with employees. At EcoVadis, the story of their office transformation became a point of pride.
Employees returning to the office with a modern, flexible arrangement, felt inspired by a space that reflects their company’s values along with key ergonomic features like sit-stand desks, dedicated wellness spaces, biolithic elements and private pods scattered throughout. By connecting their workspace to their mission, EcoVadis created an environment that boosts morale, fosters collaboration, and enhances their brand story.
Incorporating sustainable furnishings into the workplace sends a powerful message: We care about people and the planet. This narrative is especially appealing to younger generations, who prioritize corporate responsibility and value-driven work environments.
“We’re in the sustainability business and our staff agreed they don’t want to see all new furniture when there is a more sustainable alternative. We expect to save at least 40 per cent of total cost by purchasing preowned furnishings versus new. We have set a target for 90 per cent of the office furniture to be preowned on this project and have weekly meetings to find other reuse options that come available to minimize the last 10 per cent. – Richard Eyram, Chief Customer Officer, EcoVadis Toronto (source: Globe and Mail)”
THE SHIFT TOWARD SUSTAINABLE FURNISHINGS
EcoVadis isn’t alone in recognizing the value of second-hand furnishings. As return-to-work dynamics shift, more companies are turning to alternate options to address cost concerns, meet environmental goals, and promote employee engagement. Shorter lease terms have further driven this trend, prompting businesses to prioritize flexible, adaptable furnishings that align with evolving needs.
This shift is crucial because the traditional linear “take-make-waste” approach to office furnishings is no longer viable. With less than 10% of office furniture reused beyond its first space and an estimated 8.5 million tons ending up in U.S. landfills annually, the industry faces an urgent sustainability challenge.
The solution? Circular furnishing strategies that emphasize reuse, refurbishment, and adaptability. Companies like EcoVadis are leading the way, proving that sustainability is not just an aspirational goal—it’s achievable, practical, and economically smart. By embracing these strategies, businesses are not only reducing their environmental footprint but also staying ahead of workplace trends that prioritize responsible innovation.
THE WORKPLACE OF THE FUTURE
The EcoVadis project showcases how sustainable office design can deliver results for companies, employees, and the planet. By embracing second-hand furnishings, businesses can:
- Save costs while meeting design and functionality goals
- Reduce waste and emissions by reducing the extraction of raw materials
- Enhance workplace culture through values-driven storytelling
At Envirotech, we’re proud to have been part of this journey, alongside Syllable Design, helping EcoVadis achieve their vision of a circular, sustainable workspace. The future of office design is sustainable—and it’s here now.
Interested in seeing how Envirotech can help your business create a stunning, sustainable office space? Send us your project details and let’s collaborate on creating the workspace of the future!
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