A workplace should do more than provide employees with a place to work. It should support productivity, encourage collaboration, and reinforce the culture and values that make an organization unique.

*Conference Room with Custom Wallcovering and Signage*

When New Home Star's office in Elmhurst, Illinois, no longer aligned with the needs of its growing team, the company saw an opportunity to create a more functional and engaging environment. Partnering with Rieke Interiors, they transformed their 2,790-square-foot office into a workplace that improves workflow, enhances collaboration, and brings their brand to life throughout the space.

The Challenge

Like many organizations, New Home Star found that the way their team worked had evolved over time, but their workplace had not kept pace.

Their existing open office layout lacked functional flow, making it difficult for employees to work efficiently throughout the day. Limited storage options contributed to clutter and organization challenges, while the absence of dedicated meeting and phone spaces made focused conversations difficult.

The team also needed a flexible workspace that could support marketing activities, including assembling promotional materials and preparing client gifts.

Beyond functionality, New Home Star wanted the office to better reflect who they are as a company. Their goal was to create an inviting, energizing workplace that would support employee productivity while reinforcing their brand identity.

Designing a Workplace Around the Way People Work

To address these challenges, Rieke Interiors developed a comprehensive design solution that balanced functionality, flexibility, and brand expression.

The redesign focused on key areas throughout the office, including the breakroom, c onference rooms, and open workspaces. A dedicated small meeting room was introduced to provide employees with a comfortable space for calls, one-on-one conversations, and focused collaboration.

Storage solutions were strategically incorporated throughout the office to reduce clutter and improve organization. The team also received a custom multipurpose workstation designed specifically to support marketing projects and client gift preparation, creating a practical space for tasks that previously lacked a dedicated home.

Bringing the Brand to Life

One of the most impactful aspects of the project was the integration of New Home Star's brand throughout the workplace.

Conference and meeting areas feature decorative acoustic panels, acoustical pendants, distinctive wallcoverings, and carefully coordinated paint selections that create visual interest while supporting employee comfort and productivity.

*Conference room with unique lighting and acoustic wallcovering*

Playful branded accents were incorporated throughout the office to create a welcoming atmosphere and provide employees with a stronger connection to the company's identity and culture.

The result is a workplace that feels uniquely New Home Star—professional, energetic, and aligned with the organization's values.

Inspired by the Building's Industrial Character

Rather than concealing the building's existing architectural features, the design team chose to embrace them.

The concept draws inspiration from the space's industrial character, celebrating the raw qualities that make the environment unique. By enhancing these existing elements instead of covering them up, the design creates an authentic workplace that feels intentional and grounded.

Layered materials, thoughtful finishes, and carefully selected furnishings complement the architecture while introducing warmth, personality, and functionality throughout the space.

The Result: A Workplace Designed to Thrive

Today, New Home Star's office better supports the needs of its employees while creating a stronger connection to the company's brand and culture.

The improved layout provides employees with the flexibility to collaborate, focus, meet, and create spaces designed specifically for those activities. Enhanced storage and dedicated work areas improve efficiency, while branded design elements create an environment employees are proud to be part of.

Most importantly, the workplace now serves as a reflection of who New Home Star is as an organization—a company that values its people and understands the impact the work environment has on employee experience.

Ready to Create a Workplace That Supports Your Team?

The most successful workplaces are designed around the people who use them every day. Whether you're looking to improve collaboration, enhance employee experience, strengthen your brand, or prepare for future growth, thoughtful workplace design can make a lasting impact.

Learn more about how Rieke Interiors helps organizations create workplaces designed to thrive.

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Designed to Thrive – New Home Star