Tadiem Transforms Conventional Office into Community-Driven Space with ‘The Combine’ Launch
Tadiem Inc., the independent collective behind Bensimon Byrne, OneMethod, Narrative and Folk, is launching ‘The Combine’, a new way forward for creative workplaces that incentivises a return to office through the core values of human connection and collaboration.
While the pandemic gave many employers the opportunity to rethink office space, the vast majority opted to simply downsize or update the physical environment to be more conducive to hybrid working. In contrast, The Combine is both a physical and philosophical retake on the nature of workspace - one that prioritises the creative and inspirational potential that comes from the inclusion of external, community-driven content, ideas and creation. The concept, which was introduced pre-pandemic in 2018, was re-shaped and amplified with a full office renovation to bring the theory to life.
“As disruption becomes a mainstay of our industry, it’s critical that we take hold of these rapid advances through experimentation,” said Sarah Spence, Tadiem CEO. “We’ve been following the hybrid conversation closely, and for us, the answer is simple. We didn’t just go for superficial bells and whistles, we examined how our people and clients get inspired to create great work, alongside spatial design elements that foster togetherness, creativity and innovation. The result is The Combine, which is more than just an office space. It truly is a shared belief system manifested and continually adapted by our people, our clients and the creative community at-large.”
So, how does The Combine work?
The Combine is managed by a team of curators that conceptualise and host a rotation of experiences ranging from small moments that enhance day-to-day office life, to big exhibit-based events.
Membership to The Combine is automatically extended to employees and clients of all four creative agencies, plus like-minded creators from across Canada who can join for free by volunteering their time. Forward-thinking brands and creatives are encouraged to join to get inspired, host an event, and/or contribute to the community. The Combine is also in the process of obtaining partnerships with other creative establishments globally to take the concept to the next level.
It’s all housed in a unique venue that offers a wide range of services, events and gatherings focused on the four elements of:
- Making - The physical space is designed for making, blending traditional office elements with different spaces and tools for heightened creativity and community.
- Shopping - At the front is a dynamic retail space, continually reimagined by members and residents which sits a few steps below a café collaboration with The Bevy.
- Learning - A member-driven weekly speaker series in ‘Ted Talk’ fashion, as well as a bi-monthly print magazine, ‘Homemade’, and podcast, ‘Debrief’, formalises our commitment to continually sharing and upskilling.
- Living - Beyond a space for hanging out on the two outdoor patios, full bar and event space (affectionately named ‘Luigi’s’), or playing three on three at the indoor basketball court, The Combine has multiple dynamic locations for various events such as art shows, listening parties and tastings.
The Combine has a rotating calendar (including the upcoming events listed below) that will be continually updated as new members join.
- February 1st – Super Bowl pop-up shop with NFL, New Era and Peace Collective
- February 17th – 'The Bevy' grand opening
- March 17th - Video release party with @YoungDaveBangin
- April - Floral workshop with Mitsu Flowers
