In 2021, DIAC published its Design Impacts Framework to demonstrate how positive design interventions in Placemaking can be assessed and measured. In the second phase of this research, DIAC is applying the Framework to projects in other disciplines.
Artscape Launchpad – Quadrangle/Entro
Photo Credit: Adrian Williams
Launchpad was developed by Artscape to help bridge the gap that exists between the tremendous cultural and economic value artists’ ideas contribute to society and what creative people earn for their work. Whether helping to ease the transition between post-secondary and self-employment or supporting a creative business to scale up, we help creatives succeed on their own terms. To achieve this vision Artscape needed a space and a brand that is attractive and inspiring for creatives. The new facility on the 4th floor at 130 Queens Quay East, designed by Quadrangle, a multidisciplinary Toronto-based design firm, offers functionality by providing tailored studio settings like woodworking, textile, digital media and photo/film studios, but also common areas to socialize and an event space called Sugar Hall.
Entro Communications contributed with a unique brand and visual language that carried through to wayfinding for this breakthrough space. The signature graphic element, which embodies the essence of the Launchpad community and place, is a black line at a seven-degree angle. The line is inspired by the idea of “launching” or propelling and symbolizes the lift-off point or jumping board that will push artists and designers forward on their career path.
Going beyond the standard accessibility requirements, Entro recommended pictograms instead of written text wherever possible. A large vocabulary of pictograms for each work area (textile, media, woodworking, etc.), using a design skewed to the same seven-degree angle. The result for Artscape Launchpad is a fulsome program that isn’t overly serious, yet always reminds artists and designers that they are here for their creative futures.
Quadrangle sourced eclectic furnishings from vintage shops around the west end, including Smash Salvage, Design Republic and Queen West Antiques. The board room was decorated using reclaimed gym floors from Parkview High School in Dundas, Ontario. In general, wood is used extensively to increase the environmental aspect of this project.
Launchpad has created a new model for creative entrepreneurship, with the goal of fostering a community that will support and empower emerging and established artists, therefore contributing to the health and wellbeing of artists and creatives to be competitive in today’s marketplace locally and globally, but also through an environment that is stimulating, using natural materials and offers natural light and views out towards the lake.
What began as a simple line at a slight angle now directs every part of the consistent brand experience, communicating that the Launchpad is not just ‘off the grid’, it uses its own.
