When Ferrara, an emerging powerhouse in U.S. sweet snacking, was looking to relocate its headquarters from the Chicago suburbs into the city, they selected a space within the prestigious Old Main Post Office in downtown Chicago. To satisfy the client’s needs, NELSON Worldwide strategically elevated the original design of the long vacant historic Chicago location, while also creating a cohesive workplace design that is synonymous with the Ferrara brand and ambition.
To support Ferrara’s transition from a traditional office into an innovative and collaborative space, NELSON Worldwide scattered workstations throughout the exterior footprint of the office, allowing employees better access to both each other and to natural light. These exposed sightlines encourage a more open and transparent culture along with creativity, while huddle rooms and private offices still give plenty of options for privacy and concentration. The space was also divided into “neighborhoods”—each equipped with conference rooms, huddle rooms and open collaboration spaces aimed at simultaneously fostering an open culture, as well as offering moments of respite.
In commemorating the long vacant Old Chicago Main Post Office, the design elevates the industrial nature of the building, accentuating the 18-foot-tall ceilings, two vintage mail chutes and two package scales. The clean, industrial, and neutral background throughout the space allows each of their 35 beloved brands to layer on their own unique style and personality.
