Designed in 2022 amid shifting return‑to‑work expectations, this Global Agricultural Research and Development Company set out to create a workplace rooted in belonging and purpose. As employees sought flexibility and amenity‑rich environments, the goal was to design a space people wanted to return to. The result was a dynamic, multi-purpose destination for local, national, and global staff and visitors while accommodating large group events and all company meetings.
Critical to the design success was creating a welcoming atmosphere that celebrated the brand and inspired connection across all departments. As a hub for meetings and presentations, this site welcomes employees from different locations facilitating cross-disciplinary interactions. At the heart of the office, the community commons features a range of seating and flex space to accommodate workspace away from personal desks. A custom, monumental staircase blends steel, tinted glass and wood elements set against a wood slat wall featuring suspended greenery between slats. The lush green and raw materials create a point of interest while acting as a backdrop for the stage.
Fostering sense of place and brand culture. A workplace rooted in belonging.
Employees came together to create design elements featured as environmental branding. As a celebration of the industrial design culture, there was a collaborative effort with the help of the design and branding consultant team to fabricate artwork from actual parts and pieces from products they design. Surplus sieves and brackets from agricultural equipment were also repurposed as decorative elements.
Rich colors and materials convey the essence of the brand. Blending industrial elements like concrete, steel and exposed ceiling with warm, natural materials like wood, textured tile, soft furniture and greenery. Together this space is a reflection of the industrial technicians and engineers that call this space home.
Project Summary
Services Provided
- Programming
- Workplace Strategy
- Architectural
- Interior Design
- FF&E Coordination
- Environmental Graphics Coordination
- Construction Documents
- Construction Administration
Characteristics
- New addition converted former cafeteria and shop space into reprogrammed flex atrium and office space
- Developed out of master plan for the campus to ensure modifications didn’t impact future work and expansions in the future
- Two-story large flex space with perimeter balcony to facilitate all team meetings, impromptu collaboration, and product unveilings
- Various amenity spaces promoting team building activities and alternative workspaces outside of typical workstations
- Rich environmental graphics and branding with materials reflective of industry in a corporate environment
- Flexibile spaces that promote collaboration and drive the spirit of innovation
Awards
Project Award – 2026
IIDA Great Plains Chapter IDEA
