RSM – Madison, WI

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International accounting firm RSM wanted to relocate from the suburbs to downtown Madison, Wis., to be more centrally located and for its employees to have access to shops and restaurants. After many iterations of floor plans on different levels of the same building, the owner settled on the ninth floor of a historically preserved building on the square of the Capitol. The building had many unique architectural elements – including an all-glass facade and painted blue and yellow columns on the outside face – that would need to be preserved and integrated into the office design. The floor plan also posed challenges, with RSM taking over what were two different suites separated by an elevator lobby.

Having two distinct spaces created an opportunity to separate the client engaging areas from a more private employee back-of-the-house space. The main office has great views of the Capitol, flexible workstations and offices, and a break room. The client focused side has a social hub with supporting pantry, gaming area and bar with local beers on draft; a board room and various sized meeting rooms for break-out collaboration needs; a wellness room; and single-use bathroom.

Wanting to create a homey atmosphere even in an urban setting, warmer jewel tones of the RSM brand blue and green were used, along with soft textiles and lots of wood. The wood accents in chocolatey tones were used in different ceiling elements, screen walls, and a feature with a refined rounded slat profile to add dimensionality to the space.

The client’s overall goal of creating a cozy, home-like culture that would draw employees back to the office was accomplished. Employees are enjoying being in the office together and having the impromptu collaborative breakouts the client was hoping for.