Breithaupt II

One of the most impressive architectural statements in the contemporary revival of downtown Kitchener is Google’s office building. Two floors of the 1950s industrial building were saved, a dividing ‘beltline’ was added, and an eye-catching two-storey glass structure floats on top. Fortunately for architects Martin Simmons Sweers, the original structure allowed for the addition of these floors, although the majority of the building envelope was replaced and upgraded to meet the needs of a landmark modern office.

The perforated glass structure reflects different parts of the city in each of its subtle, folded plains that push inward and outward for visual interest.

The third floor beltline separates the old and the new as well as serves as a link to the Breithaupt I building.