Carmeuse
Collaborative Rooms

  • Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
  • Completed April 2019
  • Workplace
  • 2,500 square feet

Carmeuse Lime and Stone is a leading producer of high calcium and dolomitic lime, chemical grade limestone and crushed limestone aggregate products that are a vital part of important industries in steel manufacturing, energy, environmental services, and construction. Carmeuse approached IKM to explore furniture solutions to their lounge and breakroom spaces at their North American Headquarters in Pittsburgh, PA. What began as a furniture solution evolved into the need for a full architectural solution to make their collaborative spaces more casual and inviting to use.

Through a process of engaging small user groups and human resources, IKM developed a solution for opening their breakroom kitchen space by removing the dividing wall and adding transparency to the adjacent workstations. An assortment of booths, tables, and flexible lounge seating fill the space. As opposed to the previous aesthetic that intimidated employees from daily use, the new breakroom and kitchen create a beautiful, yet livable space for all of Carmeuse’s employees to gather.

All design solutions complement the existing architecture of the office including built-in amenities such as café-style booths in the lounge area and a series of private phone booths for calls or focused work.

As with many clients who do not regularly undergo design services, IKM was tasked with educating Carmeuse on the process of undergoing an architectural renovation. This partnership involves not only working with key decision makers, but also developing strategies for communicating with the entire staff. IKM provided concept renderings to assist in sharing and building excitement around the new amenities.

Once intimidated by the “look-but-don’t-touch” message sent by the original communal spaces, Carmeuse staff have settled into enjoying the new multi-use lounge spaces daily for meetings, personal time, and hospitality.

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