Kelly Construction & Design completed a 3,967-square-foot tenant improvement for HNI’s Innovation Center in New Berlin, transforming a previously leased daycare space into a dynamic employee-focused environment designed to support collaboration, training, and workplace engagement.
After the daycare tenant vacated the space, HNI partnered with KCD and Perspective Design, Inc. to reimagine the area as an internal hub for employees. The project required full interior demolition and reconfiguration to convert the former childcare layout into a professional corporate setting aligned with HNI’s operational needs and brand standards.
The renovation included construction of one large conference room, one medium conference room, and two smaller meeting rooms — each designed to support varying group sizes and technology integration requirements. Electrical and low-voltage systems were upgraded to accommodate presentation equipment, conferencing technology, and flexible meeting configurations.
In addition to the conference spaces, KCD built out a dedicated meeting and training area designed to host larger team gatherings and company events. The open layout required careful coordination of lighting, acoustics, and mechanical systems to ensure comfort and functionality during extended use.
A key feature of the project is the employee breakroom and social area, which includes a full bar installation. Plumbing, electrical, and finish work were carefully coordinated to create a durable, hospitality-inspired environment within a corporate setting. A game room was also constructed to promote employee engagement and provide a space for informal collaboration.
Two new restrooms were added as part of the renovation, requiring plumbing extensions, fixture installation, and code-compliant life-safety upgrades. Throughout the project, KCD managed mechanical, electrical, and plumbing modifications necessary to transition the space from daycare occupancy to corporate use, ensuring compliance with current building codes and performance standards.
Through strategic planning, disciplined coordination, and quality craftsmanship, Kelly Construction & Design successfully converted a former childcare facility into a modern, multifunctional employee space — reinforcing HNI’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and workplace culture.
