Thoughtful architectural and interior design isn’t just something we deliver to clients – it’s something we live every day. Our recent office expansion reflects this philosophy, transforming our workspace to better support our growing team and the dynamic ways we work together.
The first and most obvious change in our office expansion was the removal of a wall that once separated us from the adjacent suite. By merging the two spaces, we not only physically enlarged our footprint, but we also created a more open and connected environment. The unified layout improves flow between teams, brings in more natural light, and supports a refreshed sense of collaboration and growth at CNH Architects.
To accommodate group efforts, a second collaborative desk area was added. This new space provides more room for brainstorming, sketching, and sharing ideas – making it easier for teams to come together and innovate.
We also introduced casual seating arrangements for two-person conversations, complete with lounge-style chairs. These informal zones foster spontaneous dialogue and idea exchange, reinforcing the collaborative culture that drives our work.
A third conference room now supports our growing need for meeting space, offering a functional environment for internal coordination, design discussions, or privacy for staff as needed.
The expansion also supports a future need for desk spaces, outfitted with adjustable-height workstations, allowing staff to move fluidly between seated and standing positions. This flexibility supports both comfort and productivity, aligning with our commitment to designing environments that promote well-being. Several original desk spaces showed signs of wear and tear and were thoughtfully updated to better suit a refreshed space and support daily use.
In our large training room – where we gather for monthly meetings, team lunches, happy hours, and more – perimeter seating was integrated. This update increases capacity while maintaining comfort, making the space more versatile for both formal and informal gatherings. Minor adaptations, such as in-table power, were also implemented.
The kitchenette was thoughtfully upgraded to enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Improvements included the installation of a brand-color tile backsplash that adds visual interest and is easier to maintain, as well as the addition of durable, water-resistant flooring designed to withstand daily use while complementing the overall design palette of the renovated space.
Throughout the office, new shades were installed, offering improved light control and a refreshed aesthetic. It’s a subtle but effective update that contributes to the overall cohesion of space.
Perhaps the most exciting enhancement is the expansion of our interior design library. This dedicated space now includes:
- Larger sample storage area, allowing our interior design team to organize and access materials more efficiently.
- Color and temperature-matching lighting, which ensures samples are viewed in conditions that mimic real-world environments – critical for making informed design decisions.
- Project cubbies, making it easier to keep materials grouped by client or concept.
This expansion empowers our interior designers to work more fluidly and creatively, with everything they need at their fingertips.
This expansion is more than a physical upgrade—it’s a reflection of our values as architects and designers. We’ve constructed our workspace to support the way we think, collaborate, and create, ensuring that our environment continues to inspire the work we do now and into the future.
Headquartered in Apple Valley, MN – CNH Architects, Ltd. is a creative, service-oriented firm that provides innovative design solutions for municipal and public, commercial, retail, vehicle, daycare, and animal care facilities. CNH has served clients in the Twin Cities and upper Midwest since 1969.