Industry: Confidential Insurance Company

Location: Chicago, IL

Completion Date: January 2026

Design: Nelson Worldwide

Project Overview

As this insurance company evolved its workplace strategy, the organization sought to modernize its Chicago office while creating an experience that could be adapted across multiple locations. Working alongside the client and designer, Forward Space helped create an environment that supports flexibility, collaboration, and employee choice while establishing a new workplace standard for the company.

The Design Approach

The workplace was designed around a variety of work settings that support different work styles throughout the day. Open workstations, hooded focus spaces, and touchdown areas provide employees with flexibility, while cafés, meeting rooms, and collaborative spaces encourage connection and engagement.

The floorplan was intentionally organized with more active spaces toward the front of the office and quieter work areas positioned deeper within the space. Flexible reception areas connected by operable curtains allow the environment to adapt for meetings and events, while hospitality-inspired amenities create inviting destinations throughout the workplace.

After exploring workplace innovations through showroom visits and research tours, the client embraced Steelcase Ocular as a key component of its workplace strategy. The design approach established in Chicago was later adapted in New York and Toronto, creating consistent employee experiences across locations.

Outcome

The completed workplace reflects the company’s commitment to flexibility, collaboration, and employee experience. By introducing a wider variety of work settings, modern amenities, and adaptable spaces, the organization created environments that better support how employees work today.

The transformation has helped increase workplace utilization and engagement while providing a scalable framework that can be applied across offices. Throughout their multiple locations, the client now offers employees a more connected, welcoming, and flexible workplace experience.

Photography: Brandon Stengel