Stoughton Trailers Headquarters provides a gateway into the City of Stoughton, serving as a catalyst to the community.
Continue readingStoughton Trailers Headquarters
Wisconsin Economic Development (WEDC) Headquarters
Objective:
Community Collaboration
Located in the Black Business Hub on Madison’s south side, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) headquarters serves as a hub for entrepreneurial growth, providing resources and opportunities for minority-owned businesses while driving economic empowerment and cultural enrichment.
Wisconsin’s pursuit of progress and community-building is reflected in WEDC’s initiatives, which empower businesses and foster sustainable development. The space embodies this vision through intentional design choices that connect to Wisconsin’s cultural and economic heritage. Local materials—such as warm wood finishes, Milwaukee Cream City brick, and furniture crafted from Wisconsin manufacturers—underscore WEDC’s commitment to supporting the state’s economy.
SOLUTION:
Flexibility First
The workspace design features workstation flexibility that seamlessly aligns with WEDC’s work-from-home-first model. Home to more than 150 employees, the headquarters offers a balanced mix of environments that foster productivity, collaboration, and employee well-being.
The layout includes seven private offices, 15 workstations, and a range of alternative workspaces. These range from eight thoughtfully designed meeting rooms and acoustically treated booths to a quiet library that doubles as a training room, and a work café where informal interactions and relaxation flourish. By embracing diverse working styles, the headquarters space allows every team member to thrive in an environment tailored to their unique needs.
Specialized spaces provide options for focus, collaboration, and large-scale gatherings. A distraction-free quiet zone, equipped with adaptable furniture, offers a retreat for deep focus, while the versatile training room supports both professional development and collaborative initiatives. The northeast corner houses the largest meeting space, featuring two expansive glass walls that connect the interior to the vibrant streetscape. Interior garage doors enhance transparency and daylight access while creating a dynamic venue for all-hands meetings, closed board room gatherings, and community events.
To maximize daylight penetration, solo workspaces and large meeting rooms are strategically positioned along exterior walls, while smaller interior rooms are placed in less light-sensitive areas to minimize distractions.
A traditional reception area has been replaced with a forward-thinking, technology-driven solution — a digital receptionist that integrates into their office communication network, prioritizing functionality, accessibility, and a modern visitor experience.
Wisconsin Built
The design draws inspiration from Wisconsin’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, weaving these elements into a cohesive aesthetic. Materials such as natural wood, stone, and Cream City brick are complemented by a color palette reminiscent of the state’s diverse landscapes, including cranberry bogs, lush forests, sparkling lakes, and fertile farmland. This thoughtful integration creates a sense of place that is both welcoming and distinctly tied to Wisconsin’s identity.
The WEDC headquarters sets a new standard for workplace design, demonstrating how interior architecture can amplify an organization’s mission. By integrating local materials, celebrating Wisconsin manufacturers, and championing a flexible workplace model, this project embodies the principles of sustainability, innovation, and community focus. It not only meets operational requirements but serves as a beacon of WEDC’s culture.
Landmark Credit Union Oconomowoc
Landmark Credit Union’s new Oconomowoc branch seamlessly integrates history, cutting-edge technology, and a member-focused design to create a transformative banking experience.
Continue readingHabitat for Humanity Dane County Administration Office
Objective:
A New Home
Habitat for Humanity Dane County (HFHDC) had outgrown their previous space, finding themselves constrained by inadequate space to efficiently carry out their operations and meet the growing demands of their mission. The HFHDC Central Campus project aimed to consolidate the organizations essential functions, enhance organizational efficiency, increase sustainability efforts, and foster the Dane County community. They sought a location that was close to where customers were familiar with yet spacious enough to accommodate the growth of both the administrative operations and the ReStore location.
When the recently vacated Odana Road Antique Mall became available, HFHDC saw it as an ideal solution to their current and future requirements. The newly refurbished 45,000 SF central campus now serves as a singular hub for the community, housing HFHDC’s administrative offices, versatile community, and educational spaces, an expanded ReStore West location, and ReStore warehouse – all united under the same roof for the first time. This transformative project resonates with HFHDC’s core mission of providing affordable housing solutions and empowering families towards stability and self-reliance.
SOLUTION:
Open & Flexible Space
Thoughtful planning and space division were essential project components to maximize the building’s programming and create an open, easy-to-navigate environment. HFHDC’s office and meeting occupy the western section of the building, strategically positioned to benefit from the newly installed windows that flood the space with natural light. This not only enhances staff productivity and well-being but also exemplifies Habitat for Humanity’s commitment to transparency and accessibility for visiting families.
Beyond serving as administrative spaces, this multifunctional facility doubles as a dynamic training hub for volunteers and new homeowners alike. Flexible-use areas, such as the breakroom, seamlessly merge with the expansive training room, ensuring fluidity in space utilization. The design incorporates an overhead garage door, enabling these areas to transition effortlessly between large communal settings and intimate meeting spaces, highlighting the facility’s adaptability.
Private offices were thoughtfully designed to serve dual purposes, seamlessly transforming into meeting rooms when not in use by flexible work-from-home personnel. Moreover, a family-centric conference room includes a dedicated breakout space catering specifically to children, ensuring inclusivity and comfort for all.
The Habitat Story
The design solution for the overall space is a balance of form and functionality with an emphasis on affordability. Strategic pops of Habitat’s bright, welcoming colors were incorporated through the store and office to create an inclusive and inviting atmosphere. The design team focused on reusing materials and integrating secondhand items from the ReStore was not only more affordable for Habitat, but also embedded the mission, sense of history, and community within the space. Incorporating thoughtful design elements such as thematic vinyl cutouts and utilizing the exterior wall of a home as 3D wall art, Habitat for Humanity vividly illustrates the journey of homeownership and construction. Keys, nails, and hard hats are creatively employed as vinyl wall art, providing a cost-effective yet artistic portrayal of Habitat’s narrative. These imaginative touches not only elevate the visual allure of the space but also serve as constant reminders of the organization’s unwavering mission and values.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Beyond the physical spaces, the project embodies HFHDC’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Consolidating operations has not only increased operational efficiency but also expanded the ReStore’s square footage significantly. More space in the ReStore translates to more income and greater capacity to assist families in need of housing. HFHDC builds about 15 houses annually in Dane County, and from this project’s increased efficiency and revenue the new central campus is now projected to build at least 17 houses per year equating to more than an 11% increase.
St. Luke’s Lutheran Church
Objective:
A Vision for Growth and Ministry
In partnership with Strang, St. Luke’s Lutheran Church embarked on a dynamic journey of renovation and expansion. Our team was guided by the need to adapt to the church’s rapid growth and increased demands for expanded programs and ministry. Through the comprehensive nature of this project, our goal was to create improvements that would meet the evolving needs of the congregation.
SOLUTION:
Strategic Vision
Strang initiated the project with a thorough space needs analysis to accommodate the rapid growth and expanded programs and ministry of St. Luke’s. This analysis served as the cornerstone for the development of a master plan, strategically identifying the ultimate growth potential on the existing site.
Proposed Multi-Phase Expansion
Strang’s design solution involved a renovation and expansion aimed at enhancing the church’s facilities. This includes the addition of an educational wing, a multi-purpose life center, a narthex expansion, a chapel, and the enlargement of the nursery and administrative offices. The project resulted in the holistic improvement of the existing facility, fostering an environment conducive to worship and community engagement. These enhancements collectively contributed to the overall functionality, aesthetics, and usability of the church, while creating a welcoming and inclusive space.
Grant Assistance
Strang also actively supported St. Luke’s in securing a design and Implementation Grant through the Wisconsin Focus on Energy. This grant specifically targeted the improvement of mechanical systems and building envelope design, aligning with our team’s commitment to sustainable and energy-efficient practices.
This project serves as a testament to the collaborative effort between St. Luke’s Lutheran Church and Strang in realizing a vision of growth and adaptability. The proposed design solutions reflect our team’s dedication to creating a vibrant and nurturing space for the community.
Sun Prairie United Methodist Church
Objective:
Revitalizing Worship
In 1999, Strang spearheaded a transformative 12,000 SF addition to the Sun Prairie United Methodist Church, introducing a fellowship hall, new offices, and classrooms. Building on this success, Strang was years later entrusted with developing preliminary designs for comprehensive renovations to the sanctuary and the addition of a Welcome Center. This project aimed to revitalize the following various areas:
- Worship space: including narthex, sanctuary, and sacristy.
- Music space: transforming storage areas into a functional music storage/library, music storage room, and choir rehearsal room.
- Staff space: incorporating clerical office, pastor’s office, staff room, and custodial storage and office.
- Education space: redesigning preschool, classrooms, and nursery/infant room.
- Community space: revamping library/conference room, chapel, and fellowship hall.
- Support space: enhancing corridor, kitchen, kitchen storage, toilets, and storage rooms.
The overall goal for the renovation focused on creating a more inviting, functional, and transcendent facility. Key objectives included enhancing wayfinding, optimizing sanctuary seating, and ensuring accessibility and safety for the congregation. The project also aimed to increase organization and efficiency in the church’s existing spaces, prioritize cost and energy-efficient building systems, and implement enduring changes that support future growth.
SOLUTION:
A New Perspective
The sanctuary underwent a significant transformation with a 180° rotation, now orienting the congregation eastward. This allowed for a clear, unified entrance sequence from the new narthex to the East of Fellowship Hall with interior windows creating an area for overflow seating. The new narthex orientation and layout are essential in anticipating the potential for sanctuary expansion. Key features include an ornamental screen, energy-efficient tinted windows, and angled soffits to emphasize focal points while concealing mechanical elements.
The updated sanctuary seating now offers flexibility with a combination of fixed pews and movable chairs. Demountable platforms serve as chancel and choir risers, supporting various spatial configurations.
A list of the latest changes include:
- A redesigned open chancel area with new seating.
- Addition of a sacristy for worship preparation.
- Upgraded technology, including a custom-designed sanctuary window.
- Introduction of a new narthex gathering area with a covered entrance.
- A conference room adjacent to the narthex with upgraded technology.
- A multipurpose room for education and recreation.
- Redesign of the chapel.
- Upgrades to office and kitchen areas.
Strang’s commitment to longevity, functionality, and inclusivity is evident. The improvements made help the church remain resilient while embodying the vision of being a welcoming home that embraces all and makes a positive impact in people’s lives.
First United Methodist Church
Awards
International Interior Design Association
Award of Excellence
2008
Awards
American Society of Interior Designers
Gold Award for Custom Design
2008
Objective:
Welcoming Worship
This project focused on expanding and enhancing First United Methodist Church’s ability to serve its community by constructing a 26,000 SF addition. This addition aimed to provide essential support spaces, including a welcoming narthex, flexible fellowship hall, administrative offices, classrooms, a food pantry, and a serene chapel. Our team’s design approach was centered around creating an inclusive and inviting environment for both members and visitors.
SOLUTION:
Fellowship and Flexibility
The First United Methodist Church expansion is a testament to thoughtful design that seamlessly integrates the church’s rich history. The octagonal narthex on the first floor serves as a vibrant hub for church activities, featuring backlit stained-glass panels salvaged from their original building and built-in seating units. Inspired by the original octagonal-shaped sanctuary, this space provides a formal gathering area for before and after services, promoting community engagement.
A First-Floor Haven
The fellowship hall, also on the first floor, is designed for hospitality and maximum flexibility, with a full-service kitchen, acoustic design, and A/V technology to accommodate a wide range of uses and events. North facing floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with diffuse natural daylight and establish a visual connection with the street.
Chapel of Serenity & Transcendence
The second-floor chapel, inspired by the themes of water, fire, and light, serves multiple purposes, including education, reflection, small ceremonies, and study groups. Large windows infuse the entire chapel with natural light, while mechanical window shades enable easy transformation into a presentation space. The chapel design draws inspiration from the Chartres Labyrinth, invoking a strong sense of simplicity and centering oneself. A double light cove enhances light-level flexibility, emphasizing the central element of the space. A textured wall, reminiscent of gentle waves, pays homage to the water-related metaphors and sacraments of the Christian faith. The architectural ceilings and labyrinth are accentuated by dramatic lighting on the back wall, creating interest without detracting from the overall design.
Strang’s solution for the First United Methodist Church expansion reflects a commitment to community, spirituality, and a welcoming atmosphere. With intentional design choices, from the narthex to the chapel, this project contributes to an inclusive and comfortable environment, strengthening the church’s connection with its members and the broader downtown Madison community.
Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ
Objective:
A Strategic Choice
The Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ partnered with Strang on a transformative journey aimed at renovating their 50-year-old building to align with their evolving programming needs. Recognizing that their current facility fell short of meeting both current and future requirements, the collaborative planning process centered on a comprehensive and purposeful renovation to meet the church’s needs now and for many years to come.
The Strang team collaborated with the church to create a range of design options. The church, in consultation with Strang, strategically opted for the option that specifically addressed the most important goals of creating a more welcoming experience while improving the infrastructure and function of the building and accommodating critical needs within the worship hall, focusing on improving functionality and enhancing the worship experience. The objective of this option was to tackle the shortage of space for musicians and choirs in the worship hall, address poor sightlines for viewing musicians and projected images, and facilitate a smoother and more convenient exit from the sanctuary.
SOLUTION:
A Spectrum of Enhancements
The design solution curated by Strang encompassed a spectrum of enhancements to address the diverse needs of Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ. The envisioned transformation included:
- Remodeled entry
- Welcome space renovation
- New restrooms and showers
- Transformed Friendship (Fellowship) Hall
- Updated office and classroom wing finishes
- Roofing, exterior wall repair, and window replacement
- Landscape improvement
- Electrical and fire alarm updates
- Energy-efficient mechanical system upgrades
- Add solar water heating system
- Office and Classroom reconfigurations
- Expansion of Worship Hall Seating
- Larger, more flexible Chancel with new window
- Improved Worship Hall Sightlines
- Upgraded Finishes throughout Facility
Significant Transformation
The strategic choice to embark on this significant transformation resulted in notable gains for Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ. The Entry and Reception were improved with intuitive wayfinding and sightlines improved from Reception to the Entry and improved flow. An “enfilade” was created through the 3 main community spaces: The Friendship (Fellowship) Hall, the Crossing (Narthex), and the Worship Hall. By replacing solid walls with floor-to-ceiling glass, space and light flow right through the building. The uninspiring existing Friendship (Fellowship) Hall was enlivened by the rhythm of plywood planes creating a vaulted space. A Labyrinth in the floor and new windows graced by relocated stained glass that draw in light and color complete the transformation of the mundane into the transcendent. The Worship Hall was transformed by opening up the Chancel with views to the outside. A transcendent worship space was created by introducing daylight and a connection to the outdoors, where the congregation experiences the changes of the seasons all year round.
The result was the creation of a welcoming space where we experience hospitality, conversation mutuality, and abundance.
Mount Zion Baptist Church
Objective:
Strengthened Community
Fueled by an active congregation and visionary pastoral staff, Mt. Zion Baptist Church embarked on a mission to strengthen its community presence. Committed to expanding both worship capacity and outreach programs, the church engaged Strang for a 30,000 SF expansion project. Later, Mt. Zion Church again sought our expertise in crafting a 40,000 SF Family Life Center, seeking to further enhance its outreach initiatives.
SOLUTION:
Mt. Zion Baptist Church
Phase One: The initial phase involved a 15,000 SF addition to the existing church, featuring a 500-seat worship space, a welcoming narthex, administrative offices, lower-level classrooms, a versatile multi-purpose room, and a dedicated music room. The resulting design helps bolster Mt. Zion’s inclusive and engaging worship experience providing the perfect venue for the Mt. Zion Gospel Choir, one of Madison’s most beloved choral ensembles.
Mt. Zion Family Life Center
Phase Two: The second phase of our collaboration involved the elevation of the existing church and the construction of the new 40,000 SF Family Life Center.
Positioned in the vibrant south Madison neighborhood, this dynamic hub for social, youth, and athletic activities boasts a wide range of spaces, including a full-size basketball court, indoor running track, weight and exercise room, locker rooms with showers, wellness center, performance stage, seating areas, classrooms, food pantry, library, youth center, book club space, computer lab, and administrative offices.
In essence, both projects reflect Mt. Zion Baptist Church’s commitment to not only meet the spiritual needs of their congregation but also provide spaces that contribute to the holistic well-being of the wider community. Our multifaceted design not only enhances community engagement, personal development, and positive outreach but also strengthens the church’s impact on its members and the local community.
Door Creek Church
Awards
Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC)
Wisconsin Projects of Distinction - Gold Award
2014
Awards
Wisconsin Masonry Alliance
Excellence in Masonry Award
Objective:
Community, Culture & Spirituality
Strang has collaborated with Door Creek Church over the past two decades to envision and steward their 32-acre campus. We began with a master plan for the entire site with the goal of creating a long-term vision to accommodate the growth of this vibrant congregation. Over the years, we have worked with the church to implement this long-term vision to support their mission, beginning with a 50,000 square foot Phase 1 followed by a 50,000 square foot facility, followed by a 38,000 square foot expansion. The overall goal for our collaboration with Door Creek Church has been to co-create a welcoming place that is both spiritually transcendent and culturally relevant.
SOLUTION:
Phase 1
The initial facility includes a large atrium that served as a central gathering hub and a flexible, multi-purpose worship space that accommodates 750 to 800 people. The lower level includes offices, children’s ministry space, and a flexible quad of four contiguous spaces, which provide educational and meeting areas with state-of-the-art projection booths, stages, and lighting.
Phase 2
The Door Creek Church congregation had outgrown its original facility and needed to transform its campus to respond to its ministry needs. This project involves the addition of a new atrium with a cafe, a variety of seating areas, a Fireside Room, a 300-seat Chapel, and a lower level containing new classrooms, meeting spaces, and a Youth Large Group Venue. The existing facility was remodeled extensively, transforming the Atrium, Auditorium, Library, and Children’s Ministry area.
Atrium: A Place for Community
The new skylit Atrium provides a welcoming front door to the facility, with a Welcome Center and a variety of seating areas for people to sit and fellowship over a cup of coffee. The Atrium is thoughtfully designed to balance community and privacy, with a higher middle space flanked by more intimate spaces with lower ceilings that provide comfortable spaces for people to meet and fellowship over a cup of coffee. An arched stone fireplace at the west end of the atrium provides a focal point to the space while helping provide definition and privacy to the Fireside Room without the use of doors.
Chapel: A Transcendent Place
The creation of the 300-seat Chapel was in response to the congregation’s need for a worship space for their traditional service, as well as a venue for weddings and funerals. The form and massing of the Chapel reflect that of the existing facility and elevate it to a more transcendent level. Deep overhangs pick up on roof forms of the existing facility and provide diffuse cool daylight into the chapel. The Chapel is intentionally designed to be the focal point of the Door Creek Church campus and the anchor of the overall massing and composition of the building.
The use of clear Birch plywood clouds, exposed structural beams, and curved knee braces that animate the ceiling plane was an economical design strategy, turning the need for frugality into an aesthetic virtue. The excellent acoustics, daylight streaming through three levels of windows, and views out to the landscape come together to create a truly transcendent space.
A Seamless Transition
The existing building has been remodeled extensively, transforming it so that there is a seamless and imperceptible transition between new and old. A number of congregants continue to say that they cannot determine where the original front door used to be, and where the old leaves off and the new begins. The new finishes and trim have been integrated into the public spaces of the existing facility and a new, light filled cafe has been created at the south end of the existing atrium. In the words of Lead Pastor Marc Maillefer, “We did not just gain 38,000 square feet of additional space, we now have a brand new 87,000 square foot facility.”