Gentex Corporation are industry leaders in personal protection and situational awareness. Their specialized helmets with optic and audio features are used by global defense forces, emergency responders, and industrial personnel operating in high-performance environments, including the helmets worn in the movie “Top Gun” and, more importantly, by the real U.S. military pilots, soldiers and Navy Seals.
Upon entry, the vertical graphic panels articulate arrival, define a path and display maps expressing the global locations of the company. The metal ceiling feature provides visual interest and identifies circulation. Eye-catching wall graphics illustrate Gentex products being used in dynamic situations.
At the heart of the space, a multi-functional “Town Center” that exposes the heavy timber sawtooth construction of the 125 year old former silk mill becomes a central organizing spine, as well as a place to relax, refresh and meet informally. The strategic central placement creates a hub for social interaction and casual collisions. It incorporates flexible furniture, state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and food service support, providing Gentex with a dedicated place for internal workshops or large presentations.
The Town Center is punctuated by an “Exhibit Wall” that highlights the company history, while the exhibit boxes and video monitors can be updated regularly depending on what products they want to showcase for visitors and customers.
The space is organized to maximize collaboration and provide a variety of spaces for flexible and hybrid work – from “phone booth” rooms for a private call or meditation to meeting rooms of different sizes that accommodate everything from a team meeting to a company-wide gathering. Hoteling desks give Gentex’s global colleagues places to work during their visits.
The glass-enclosed offices feel private when seated but open to views of the surrounding landscape. Their central placement allows employees to enjoy natural light from the perimeter windows while skylights punched into the roof deliver light internally. Sit-stand desks provide health and productivity benefits. Sound masking speakers throughout the space help to both maintain noise levels and serve as an audio system.
Materials, colors and wall graphics provide vibrant backdrops that energize the spirit of Gentex and reinforce their brand messaging, as well as their core mission, vision and values.
The impact of the project on employees and visitors has been considerable. Data was collected to measure desired outcomes of the project. Across the board, the improvement has been significant, including pride in the workplace, customer experience, collaboration, physical comfort, and reflection of the company’s history, values and brand story. Every day the inspiring design is a reminder to their dedicated team that they protect those who protect us.
AIA Northeastern Pennsylvania Honor Award for Design Excellence
