The transformation is clear, and in more ways than one. CNH Architects and Ziegler CAT worked together to design a new employee cafeteria. Kraus Anderson partnered with the owner and design team to construction the new design at the Bloomington, MN Headquarters – elevating it from a merely functional space to one that promotes the wellbeing of its valued employees.

Positive work environments have been proven to increase employee happiness, engagement, collaboration, retention, and growth – all of which goes hand in hand with productivity. A current employee puts it well when he says, “the space is a neutral and comfortable spot for all.”

The Café provides a variety of comfortable seating for all group types in the building. Booths, high tops, and gathering tables allow for a multi-functional space – and one that invites collaboration. What used to be a line-serving cafeteria is now an accommodating one that includes modernized technology in its café, lunch meeting room, micro-market, and kitchenette areas. What can be seen after time, this café is more than just a place to eat; it is a relaxed environment where employees can take a break, regroup, collaborate, build camaraderie, and feel respected for their work efforts.

Beyond this experiential design, the spatial design was developed to include resourceful and intentional features. The industrial feel ties into the work at hand. The steel beams and original logo pay tribute to the company and its rich history. Even the fireplace utilizes taconite pellets, a rock-based iron ore sourced by the company itself from the local Iron Range. Steel wall panels, perforated metal dividers, yellow accents, concrete tiles, and a linear wood acoustical ceiling (to reduce sound transfer) were astute decisions that could only be made after an in-depth planning process – one that involved months of weekly meetings with key managers and staff.

It can be said that clear communication, knowledge, and (most importantly) trust greatly impacted this winning achievement. Ziegler CAT plans to reflect the overall concept within more of its facilities, with designs currently being progressed for the Iowa Headquarters.

Shown Below: Before + After