Research + Technology Workplace: USG Corporate Innovation Center
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USG Corporation, a global manufacturer and distributor of high-performance building systems, has been innovating new products and technologies for over a century. The USG Research & Technology Center in Libertyville, IL, asked Starr Design to prepare a Master Plan Feasibility Study. Starr Design had previously worked with USG on various exhibit, workplace and showroom projects. Working in collaboration with the administration leadership, the firm prepared an executive summary to be used for a phased capital appropriation strategy. The report detailed physical and process improvements to help position the facility for long-term business objectives.
Refocusing on its renowned history of developing new products and technologies, USG rebranded the research facility as the USG Corporation Innovation Center. The company had an ambitious and visionary plan— to position the company for growth while emerging from bankruptcy.
For nearly five years, Starr Design helped frame a phased renovation strategy that would coordinate with operational and capital budgets, company reorganization, and the promotion of branded technologies and next generation product lines.
Over the course of the project, Starr Design programmed, conceptualized, and managed all phases of diverse improvements for over 200,000 square feet of space within four buildings. Projects included specifying new lighting and ceilings throughout, completely renovating the process and paper laboratory office area, re-purposing workplace equipment, and creating a highly detailed media and custom millwork product communication display. Please see the Tour Group Exhibit: USG Corporate Innovation Center in Visual Communication.
The scale and scope of the project benefited from a collaboration with specialists within the organization as well as with industry consultants to result in a revitalized, functional, and experiential environment.
