Along with utilizing the company’s
CET Design software to streamline space planning and product ordering,
Configura interior designer is also holding what she calls “design charrettes” with employees — all in an effort to help create a maximally inclusive work environment for the Swedish tech company’s new digs in downtown Grand Rapids Blue35 building.
A West Michigan native, Steinhaus is drawing on her past experience overseeing the design of Configura’s corporate headquarters in Linköping, and is designing both the 12,000-square-foot space and planned rooftop terrace to accommodate large groups of visitors from the company’s Sweden headquarters and Malaysia offices, as well as those visit for CET Designer software training sessions.
“It’s about creating spaces that attract and retain the best of the best,” Steinhaus says. “Working in Grand Rapids is just as cool as working in Silicon Valley or anywhere in the world.”
Along with workspaces, the two-story office space will feature a large open kitchen area, a dining and recreation space, and “plenty of soft seating,” with a rooftop terrace available for everything from entertaining guests to a relaxation spot for Configura employees.
Created by Rockford Construction as a flexible work environment for modern-age businesses, the 103-year-old building at 35 Oakes St. SW is a fitting place for Swedish tech company Configura’s latest expansion into the Grand Rapids market, says Rockford’s managing partner of real estate development, Mike Mraz.
“Blue35 was created as an innovative environment to meet the ever-changing needs of businesses, right in the heart of our city,” Mraz says. “Welcoming Configura to the building speaks to the flexibility the space offers, and the continued desire for companies to be located in downtown Grand Rapids. This is a perfect addition to Blue35, and a great fit for Configura.”
Leasing two floors at a total of 12,000 square feet, Configura’s new office space is just one fixture in the eight-story Blue35 building, whose remaining six floors are outfitted with rentable private offices, co-working spaces, or other meeting and event rooms.
“To say we’re thrilled to be investing in Grand Rapids and our team for a strong future ahead is an understatement,” says Configura CEO Johan Lyreborn. “Grand Rapids is our second home – we love being here.”
Written by Anya Zentmeyer, Development News Editor
Images courtesy of Configura/Rockford Construction
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