Canaccord Fit-Out

Canaccord’s fit-out is a project where restraint and ingenuity intersect — a space shaped as much by what is removed as by what is introduced. Designed by Hot Black and delivered by MPA, the 600m² workplace explores how subtle shifts in detailing can elevate both the visual outcome and the efficiency of construction.

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At first glance, the concept is direct: a dense field of basalt blue aluminium battens, framed by crisp plasterboard margins. Yet within this simplicity lies a series of decisions that redefine how the ceiling is resolved.

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The Apollo Aluminium Batten system forms the foundation of the design. At 50 x 25mm profiles set tightly at 50mm centres, the ceiling establishes a strong, consistent rhythm — a linear field that draws the eye and defines the space with clarity.

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The Basalt Flat Electro finish introduces depth and richness, contrasting against the surrounding surfaces while maintaining a controlled, architectural tone. It is a palette that feels deliberate, allowing colour to carry presence without overwhelming the broader composition.

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Where the project shifts from expected to resolved is in the treatment of the perimeter. In a system of this density, conventional thinking would lead to an abundance of end caps — each one requiring precision, adding cost and introducing visual interruption.

Instead, the solution came through a subtle adjustment: lowering the plasterboard margin by 50mm. This allowed the battens to run cleanly over the edge, eliminating the need for end caps entirely. The result is a ceiling that reads as continuous and uninterrupted, while also simplifying installation and reducing overall cost.

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This approach becomes even more critical in areas where the architecture introduces curvature. Rather than forcing the battens to articulate these curves through segmented cuts, the plasterboard margins take on this role. The battens remain linear and consistent, while the perimeter defines the form — a strategy that preserves the integrity of the system while achieving the desired spatial expression.

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Acoustic performance, treated at the underside of the slab to achieve an NRC of 0.70, ensures the space remains balanced and functional. Installed by Paracon, the execution reflects a high level of coordination, allowing the simplicity of the design to be carried through with precision.

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Canaccord ultimately demonstrates that refinement often lies in the smallest decisions. It is a project where detail drives outcome — where a single adjustment transforms both the appearance and efficiency of the system, resulting in a ceiling that feels effortless, yet is carefully considered at every level.