Workplace Renovation
Minnesota Housing Finance Agency
The Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (MHFA) strengthens communities through education and access to safe, affordable housing. When Minnesota Housing’s team-oriented culture met obstacles related to working in compartmentalized office spaces, the agency teamed with BWBR to conduct an office redesign study. The subsequent office relocation and renovation breaks down department silos and celebrates the agency’s guiding principles: promoting Minnesota Housing’s mission and identity; attracting and retaining talent; fostering a collaborative, innovative environment; and forming a nimble, agile, and efficient workplace of the future.
Vibrant and functional, the new office atmosphere inspires employees to live out their passion for serving the people of Minnesota. From the front doors to the front desk and beyond, the workspace is branded to reflect MHFA’s colors and mission. Environmental graphics featuring neighborhoods and client success stories remind employees of the value they bring to work every day.
The design also promotes employee wellbeing. Natural daylight floods the space, stimulating discovery and creativity. The open and transparent environment promotes a culture of knowledge sharing and mentorship, while informal meeting spaces accommodate casual and in-depth conversations. Small, quiet spaces support choices for tasks that require higher levels of focus or privacy.
Team
Additional Team Members
Pete Smith (retired)
President and CEO Emeritus
Marivel Ansera
Senior Interior Designer
Eric West
Senior Project Manager
Project Specs
Size:
40,000 sq. ft.
Components:
Change management strategies; environmental graphics and branding featuring client success stories and community themes; offices; collaboration spaces; mission driven workplace
Completion:
2017