Project Description
With ongoing changes to the workplace, Panera Bread partnered with experience agency ChangeUp to design their new Boston office. Panera had most recently worked with ChangeUp to build their next generation restaurant, so the agency was already familiar with the Panera brand and experience.
Taking hybrid workflow largely into account, ChangeUp took a tech-forward approach every step of the way. It was critical to design an uplifting and adaptable work environment that allows employees to better connect with one another and the Panera brand.
Upon entry, guests and employees enter the Brand Immersion Hall, which highlights key artifacts, important moments in Panera’s history, and even a custom light fixture that lights the path of the individual, symbolizing the bright future ahead.
The backdrop of the open office space is the Chef’s Kitchen, which allows employees to see what new innovations are regularly taking place in the kitchen. This kind of transparency and environment for collaboration is integrated all throughout the workspace – from the open floor plan, large glass walls, and increased gathering areas.
And anchoring the office café is a large social media wall that broadcasts customers’ interaction with the brand and restaurants. The live stream is an important reminder, centering employees back on the customer.
“Following ChangeUp’s work last year on Panera’s next generation restaurant, designing their new Boston office was a natural evolution,” said ChangeUp’s Creative Director Amanda McAllister.
“We already understood the ins and outs of their brand and business, and were excited at the prospect of creating an adaptable, creative space that allows employees to truly connect. Considering the complexities that exist today in the workplace, it was important we prioritized a tech-forward approach that provided both flexibility and inspiration.”