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.
