In the period since opening, Arvest at Ledger has continued to redefine the modern workplace as a hybrid-ready, future-forward headquarters. Designed by New York–based architecture and design studio Callaghan Horiuchi, the project reflects Arvest’s shift from a traditional brick-and-mortar institution to a technology-driven organisation. The 40,000-square-foot fit-out occupies the entire fourth floor of Ledger, a six-storey mixed-use building in Downtown Bentonville, the historic business district of Bentonville, Arkansas.
Design intent and organisational vision
“The project required the integration of multiple programmatic typologies into a cohesive and flexible design framework that could support both immediate and long-term organisational needs,” said Christian Callaghan, Partner at Callaghan Horiuchi. “It integrates collaboration, focus, and restoration into a unified environment — embodying institutional culture while preparing it for the future.”
From Arvest’s perspective, the workplace represents a strategic shift in how associates connect, collaborate, and innovate. “Arvest at Ledger represents more than a new workplace – it reflects how our organisation is evolving for the future,” said Brad Crain, Regional Executive for Enhanced Banking Services. “This space captures the spirit of innovation, flexibility, and community that defines who we are and where we are headed as a company.”
Planning strategy and workplace typologies
The project was shaped by a research-driven process combining leadership interviews, workflow analyses, and behavioural mapping. This led to an activity-based planning strategy organised into five typologies: Team Homes for collaboration; Focus Spaces for individual work; Collaboration Spaces for hybrid teamwork; Experimental Spaces for testing ideas; and Amenity Spaces for gathering and restoration. This framework supports seamless movement between modes of work.
Technology integration, including dual displays, eye-level cameras, and interactive capture systems, ensures remote colleagues remain fully connected.
Biophilic and human-centred design
“From the start, Arvest at Ledger was designed with nature in mind,” said Haruka Horiuchi, Partner at Callaghan Horiuchi. “Biophilic environments are proven to reduce stress, improve focus, and nurture creativity. For Arvest at Ledger, these principles form the foundation for a workplace that feels alive, restorative, and connected to something beyond the building itself.”
Biophilia and wellness guided every aspect of the interiors. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide natural light on all four exposures of the floorplate (north, south, east, and west), while daylight-simulating skylights and windows introduce outdoor qualities into intentionally windowless meeting and collaboration rooms, helping occupants maintain circadian rhythms. The design incorporates curved walls and planters to introduce organic forms, along with “refuge and prospect” spaces created through a balance of secluded nooks and connections to larger communal areas. A connected outdoor terrace offers immediate access to fresh air.
Material selections reinforce the project’s emphasis on nature. Natural white oak, raw silk, and wool sit alongside carpets featuring organic patterns, textures, and colours inspired by local landscapes and skies. The plant programme brings greenery close to users at a remarkable scale, with 1,252 indoor plants distributed throughout the workplace.
Biomorphic patterns appear in large-scale wall coverings, while hand-drawn draperies in soft, recycled materials offer both visual and acoustic privacy. Acoustic strategies extend throughout: PET felt wall coverings, ceiling elements, and textile treatments help create quiet yet open work areas. These elements come together to establish an environment rooted in natural qualities and shaped around human comfort.
Materiality and crafted elements
Soft fabrics and recycled materials are used in hand-drawn draperies that provide visual and acoustic privacy. A custom “flow” wall covering with hand-sewn felt accents introduces a water-inspired motif, while large-scale printed wall coverings evoke hand-painted landscapes. Handcrafted terracotta-toned tiles reference Arkansas’s red rock terrain.
Acoustic and millwork components continue this narrative. Meeting rooms are lined with recycled PET felt panels and collaboration spaces incorporate sculptural acoustic ceilings with free-floating elements reminiscent of birds in flight. Additional elements include terrazzo countertops, locally sourced millwork and planters, and booths upholstered in green-certified fabrics.
Workplace experience
At Arvest, employees embrace the fit-out’s flexibility, the integration of nature into daily routines, and the balance between digital connectivity and in-person collaboration. The workplace centres on human comfort, environmental responsiveness, and a strong connection to the natural landscape of Northwest Arkansas.
