Commercial projects
Organizations I've Designed For
These commercial projects represent work completed during joanne's professional design career prior to launching ellis j. design studio.
in each project, she served as project and design lead, shaping the creative direction, space planning and material selection from concept through execution.
this collection reflects the experience and design approach she now brings to her clients through ellis. j. design Studio
Clubhouse Refresh
This project involved cosmetic refresh of the Willow Valley clubhouse, focusing on the reception area, dining space, lounge, and bar. The original layout struggled with an oversized reception desk, an unnecessary retail footprint, limited seating, and traffic flow that worked against both guest comfort and business goals.
The design approach centered on reclaiming space and reshaping the guest experience. By streamlining the front entry, reducing the retail zone, and rethinking the seating plan, the layout was transformed to feel open, functional, and welcoming.
The final design encourages golfers to linger while moving naturally from play to dining to socializing. With improved flow and purpose-built seating areas, the clubhouse now better supports engagement, comfort, and revenue while offering a more cohesive and enjoyable atmosphere.​
Project Completed while Joanne Served as Project and Design Lead at a previous firm.
Bar & Lounge
This project was a true designer’s dream. The client envisioned a bold, never-been-done concept: a country bar fused with feminine energy; disco ball meets Southern belle. The design goal was to create a bar and lounge that felt playful and feminine, yet modern and welcoming for everyone.
Working within a 100-year-old building presented unique challenges. Nothing was square or plumb, and original elements like the exposed brick and large structural wood columns needed to remain. With a small footprint and significant functional requirements, every inch of space had to work hard.
The design leaned into the site’s historic charm, layering country-inspired textures, elegant finishes, and a palette of golds and greens to strike the perfect balance between feminine flair and timeless sophistication. The result is a warm, character-rich space that feels both lively and intimate. An unforgettable blend of nostalgia, modernity, and personality.
Project Completed while Joanne Served as Project and Design Lead at a previous firm.
Full Office Reno
Cat Financial was relocating their offices and needed a fresh, modern environment that strengthened their identity while maintaining strict security requirements.
The design focused on creating a clean, contemporary palette using crisp neutrals paired with warm wood accents to elevate the space without losing the brand’s timeless, professional feel.
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The final design balances functionality, security, and style, providing the team a workspace that feels modern, cohesive, and aligned with the company's evolution.​
Project Completed while Joanne Served as Project and Design Lead at a previous firm.
Full Office Reno
Bench Brewery brought needed to transform their basement construction zone into a warm, functional workspace that aligned with the character of their historic building. The space needed to feel welcoming while providing a private office, boardroom, and some touchdown workstations.
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Working within the existing parameters I introduced a modern palette that complements the building’s heritage. Brick veneer was added to the structural columns to create intentional architectural moments.
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The result is a modern office environment that respects the history of the building while giving the Bench team a comfortable and functional place to collaborate.​
Project Completed while Joanne Served as Project and Design Lead at a previous firm.
Full Office Reno
First Ontario Credit Union leased a new space for their call center and required a layout that supported privacy, productivity, and brand alignment. The design focused on creating a space plan that prioritized acoustic comfort through furniture, flooring, and ceiling treatments.
The overall environment remains bright and efficient, with a flexible training space integrated to support team development. In the staff lounge, a more playful expression of the brand colors was introduced to bring energy and personality into the break area. The result is a functional, modern workspace that balances focus, comfort, and brand cohesion.
Project Completed while Joanne Served as Project and Design Lead at a previous firm.
Clubhouse Refresh
Brock Golf Course sought a full refresh of their outdated clubhouse and restaurant. The space lacked functionality, had poor flow, and left large areas underutilized.
The design approach focused on developing a detailed space plan that clearly defined how each zone could function at its best, supported by custom millwork to elevate merchandise displays and increase revenue potential.
The restaurant required a complete update, including flexible, purpose-driven furniture, an efficient bar layout, and durable finishes suited for high-traffic use.
The final concept features a warm, classic palette to appeal to all generations, with a strategic pop of color in the restaurant to draw the eye and energize the space.
Project Completed while Joanne Served as Project and Design Lead at a previous firm.
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