MBI Showroom and Offices
“Functional, flexible, and visually stunning.”
To offer their team an inspiring and dynamic workplace experience, furniture dealer MBI invested in a complete office remodel. Bond Architects was brought on board to assist them with designing an energizing space reflecting their commitment to quality, service, and collaboration.
The pre-planning and employee engagement process for MBI was unique because it was a direct collaboration with the Owner. Because the project was delivered using a design-build process, there was very close collaboration between Owner, Architect and Contractor. Whenever an existing building is being touched, unexpected challenges always arise, and we all worked together as a team to address them.
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Client: Modern Business Interiors (MBI)
Location: St. Charles, MO
12,000 SF
Completed 2024
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Architectural Design
Branding
Interior Design
Construction Documents
Construction Administration
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Resimmercial design.
Diverse workstation options.
Flexible furniture.
New acoustically separated glass wall rooms for individual focus and small groups.
New bar and kitchen for casual gatherings.
Custom environmental graphics and branding.
New finishes throughout.
“Andrea Giovando and Bond Architects were instrumental in the successful design of our new 12,000 SF showroom and office renovation. From the beginning, Andrea took the time to truly understand our goals, listen to our needs, and translate them into a thoughtful and inspiring design. The result is a space that not only enhances our daily operations, but also reflects our employee-centric culture and positions us for the future. The showroom has become a powerful tool for our business: functional, flexible, and visually stunning.””
Flexible, Timeless Spaces
We designed a space that could adapt with an ever-evolving work environment. The space needed to be flexible so MBI could showcase their latest products to their full advantage. We selected finishes that had a timeless look while still feeling fresh and contemporary. An open, adaptable floor plan will also help MBI easily change their space to accommodate future needs.
The space was designed to enhance the employee and client experience. We used design principles drawn from neuroaesthetics and biophilic design, such as improved visibility and engaging surfaces, to create a space that would feel good to be in. This built environment has proven to enhance the daily tasks of employees and has positioned MBI for the future.
Opportunities for Choice
One of MBI’s goals for the new space was to offer its team members a comfortable, inviting working environment. Our design team accomplished this goal by creating opportunities for choice that gave users control over their physical environment.
The workspace features diverse workstation options, from traditional desks to comfy couches. Flexible furniture, such as height-adjustable desks, empowers users to customize their workstations according to their needs. Demountable glass walls create several semi-private rooms for quiet focus or collaborating with small groups. Fun amenities such as a bar and golf simulator offer casual spots for socializing with co-workers and clients.
Resimmercial Design
MBI’s office and showroom is an example of “Resimmercial” design – bringing the comforts of home to commercial and institutional spaces with residentially-inspired furnishings.
Casual gathering areas, such as the bar and break area, are placed at the front to create a convivial first impression. Multiple groupings of soft seating create cozy nooks, including a gathering area by an electric fireplace. Warm, tactile finishes and materials are used throughout. Plants and other decorative objects add to the homey feel. Acoustic panels, screens, and ceiling fixtures soften sounds while adding rich visual interest.
Brand Experience
Bond Architects worked with MBI to create a fully branded environment celebrating their identity and values.
Custom wall graphics reinforce MBI’s brand throughout the space. The highlight is a massive wall mural, customized with MBI’s brand colors, declaring “Design Your Life.” This mural adds to the lively atmosphere while providing an appealing background for social media posts. Colors, graphics, and other design elements were carefully considered for the right balance between a fun, hip environment and timeless appeal.
