PROJECT HISTORY
The challenge
Building a new studio and office space that would reinvigorate the business and attract employees to join the company and use the space.
American Greetings
Delivering a new creative studio and headquarters
The solution
A new headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio, that reflects a modern and creative space boasting showrooms, meeting rooms, and a large courtyard.
The impact
The location has become an integral part of the area and has attracted talent to join the leading American greeting card company.
660,000 sq ft
building
1,600
employee capacity
The challenge
With a rich history dating back to 1905, American Greetings sought a new headquarters that would carry the business into the next century. After deciding to relocate its 1,600 employees from Brooklyn to Cleveland, Ohio, the company looked to Arcadis to design a facility that would be an expression of their corporate culture and character, with both a deep respect for the American Greetings history and a view to the future of the industry.
The solution
In designing American Greetings’ new creative studios and headquarters, we created a range of environments called “neighbourhoods” to suit an array of work styles and a spectrum of employee needs — whether one-on-one meetings or large group gatherings. There’s also designated quiet spaces to facilitate heads-down time. The new space offers choice to people and allows them to modify their environments to fit their needs. It was important to provide a creative laboratory that inspires innovation, collaboration and community, while respecting individuality.
Designed specifically with their culture in mind, the headquarters combines history, imagery, and creative spaces to express AG’s mission throughout the building. AG Associates were engaged to design a series of custom wall graphics, displays, and way-finding signage.
The impact
At over 660,000 sq ft, the new headquarters is a truly modern workplace with space for offices, meeting rooms, photo studios and showrooms. The incorporation of greenery and natural elements into the workplace is important for productivity and employees wellness. The location blends seamlessly with nearby shopping, dining and residential areas, making this fourth-generation, family-run corporation an integral part of the community and an attraction for new talent.
“We wanted the new headquarters to exude the passion and creativity of the company. By making it feel less like a traditional office and more like an inspiring studio with access to a courtyard, gallery space and varied workspaces, we were able to physically showcase what AG is all about,” says Senior Associate Vice President Jennifer Barnes.
