As one of North America’s largest and fastest-growing funeral, cremation, and cemetery providers, our client deeply understands how powerful empathy can be during life’s most challenging moments. When the team outgrew their current workplace, leadership recognized the need for a new space that reflected the warmth and connection valued by their clients.

Our team began formulating a design solution based on an in-depth understanding of the client’s purpose, which was discussed during visioning sessions with leadership. Beyond their ideal future state and how their office needed to support it, we uncovered which aspects of their existing space didn’t support their needs, and how they envisioned their new workplace as a physical embodiment of empathy. Team members were not fully utilizing shared areas such as break rooms, resulting in fewer cross-team interactions and impacting the organization’s morale.

It was essential that the design amplified team synergy and supported their overall well-being to make the experience fulfill the client’s vision.

To achieve these objectives, we utilized glass partitions that allowed unobstructed sightlines while creating a discernible barrier between public and private areas. This sense of openness further encourages collaboration opportunities and a sense of connection among teammates. As an added benefit, the partitions allow natural light to flow into the building, providing the entire space with ample daylight and connecting the team to nature through the view of surrounding areas.

To instill belonging among their team, we carefully examined opportunities for connection. Because teams previously worked in siloed offices, areas including lounges and break rooms needed to offer connection points that would compel employees to interact with others outside their immediate team. The new design features several amenity spaces with seating, offering the perfect place to nurture the organization’s culture and sense of community.

Due to the sensitive nature of their work, the client also required private areas where they could meet with individuals in a more intimate environment. Typically used for counsel and condolences, these spaces needed to be quiet and welcoming. When designing our program, we strategically placed these meeting rooms away from common areas to accommodate maximum privacy. Additionally, we outfitted the rooms with soft furniture and appropriate lighting to establish a comforting atmosphere.

Our client actively participated in the design process, contributing their own ideas and insights. Their engagement ensured smooth and efficient project execution, playing a crucial role in creating a personalized workplace that fosters well-being and reflects the empathy and care extended to clients.