Corporate Office Reception Rebrand
client
(Confidential)
Location
Ontario, Canada
Date
Dec 4, 2024
Service
This corporate client wanted their reception to reflect an updated brand while working within an existing building shell. We designed a new feature wall behind reception with dimensional logo signage and integrated lighting to create a strong first impression.
Project Overview
Client / Sector: Corporate Head Office / Corporate / Commercial Office
Location: Greater Toronto Area
Scope: Main reception, entry corridor, elevator lobby, glass partitions
Services: Architectural film resurfacing, feature wall, signage, environmental graphics, installation
Duration: Completed in planned phases outside of peak business hours
Overview
The existing reception area was clean but dated: dark wood tones, aging laminate, and standard directory signage that felt more “back office” than brand flagship. The company had recently updated its visual identity and wanted the space to:
Make a strong first impression for clients and visitors
Reflect new brand colors, typography, and messaging
Improve the experience for staff who pass through the space every day
Avoid a long construction schedule and major disruption
AFF was engaged to reimagine the reception environment using architectural finishes, signage, and graphics instead of demolition.
The Challenge
No major construction. The client wanted a transformed look without tearing out existing millwork, floors, or walls.
Active building. Tenants, staff, and visitors needed to move through the lobby and reception during normal hours, so work had to be quiet, clean, and phased.
New brand, existing architecture. The refreshed identity needed to integrate with the existing layout, lighting, and structural elements.
Durability and maintenance. Surfaces had to withstand daily traffic, rolling bags, deliveries, and regular cleaning.
The central challenge:
Deliver a high-end, branded reception experience using enhancements, not rebuilds.
Our Approach & Solution
AFF focused on high-impact, low-disruption interventions that leveraged existing structures.
Discovery & concept development
Conducted a site walkthrough to understand traffic flows, sightlines, and key touchpoints.
Reviewed the client’s updated brand standards (colors, logo, photography, tone of voice).
Identified priority areas for visual impact: reception desk, main feature wall, elevator lobby, and glass partitions.
Feature wall & brand focal point
Designed a new feature wall behind the reception desk to anchor the space.
Combined dimensional logo signage with architectural finishes and subtle lighting effects to create a strong, on-brand focal point visible from the entrance.
Resurfacing key surfaces with architectural films
Wrapped dated wood and laminate on the reception desk, wall panels, and accent columns in modern wood-grain and matte finishes using architectural film.
Chose patterns that paired well with existing flooring and ceiling elements, avoiding the need for broader renovations.
Signage, wayfinding & messaging
Updated main identity signage at reception and elevator lobby with the new logo and typography.
Designed clean directory and wayfinding graphics for visitors navigating meeting rooms and office suites.
Introduced subtle brand messaging panels to communicate the company’s values and services without turning the space into an “ad.”
Glass films for privacy & aesthetics
Applied decorative glass films to meeting room and office partitions off the reception area.
Used patterns that added privacy while allowing light to pass through, reinforcing the new brand aesthetic.
Phased installation plan
Scheduled work in evening and early morning windows to keep the lobby functional during the day.
Coordinated with building management on access, protection of adjacent finishes, and cleanup after each phase.
Materials & Methods
Architectural Films
Wood-grain and neutral matte finishes for reception desk and wall panels
Accent finishes for columns and key architectural elements
Signage & Logos
Dimensional logo signage at reception feature wall
Branded directory and wayfinding signs in elevator lobby and corridors
Wall-mounted messaging panels with brand story and values
Glass Treatments
Frosted and patterned glass films on meeting room and office partitions
Stripe and banding solutions for safety and privacy
Production & Install Approach
Detailed site measurements and templates to ensure precise fit
Surface prep of existing millwork and wall panels prior to film application
Careful edge finishing to support long-term durability and easy cleaning
Results & Impact
A reception that finally matches the brand. Visitors now arrive into a space that feels aligned with the company’s updated visual identity and positioning.
Modern look without demolition. By resurfacing and overlaying finishes, the client avoided the cost, mess, and downtime of a full build-out.
Improved first impressions. Staff reported more positive feedback from clients and guests, with the space described as “fresh,” “professional,” and “welcoming.”
Better wayfinding and flow. Updated signage and glass treatments make it easier for visitors to navigate, while still maintaining privacy where needed.
Repeatable approach. The finishes, signage standards, and glass treatments used here can be replicated at regional offices to create consistent brand environments.
Scope of Work
Site survey and brand standards review
Design of reception feature wall and focal signage
Architectural film selection and application to existing millwork and wall panels
Fabrication and installation of dimensional logo signage
Design and production of directories, wayfinding, and brand messaging panels
Design and installation of decorative glass films on partitions
Phased, low-disruption installation and on-site coordination
Final inspection and touch-ups
