Findorff's Downtown location has spectacular lake view

The decision to keep the headquarters for builder J. H. Findorff and Son in Downtown Madison was not a difficult one.

Findorff's CEO, Curt Hastings, knew for certain it was the right decision when he stepped onto the third floor of the new building. Through the three-story bank of windows he saw the panorama of Lake Monona, a view blocked by fencing since the company's founding on the site in the 1890s. The breadth and beauty of the view drove home the point: Downtown Madison was central to the company's identity. The 38,000-square-foot building on North Shore Drive is now familiar to those who go past, whether by car, bike, foot or boat. Three stories of brick columns and windows, capped with the roof line angled up and out, seems to salute the scene and its occupants.

The central location is also great for the 60-70 employees, many of whom bike and run around the lake, or walk to nearby restaurants. Concerts on the square and Wednesday farmer's markets are easily accessible.

Character of building

The building reflects Findorff's history on the site and its business. Exposed concrete, masonry and steel showcase Findorff's construction operations. The architecture, layout and materials come together to "consciously create the character" of the building, according to Mike Whaley, director of preconstruction. The building blends the historical elements of their old warehouse with a modern floor plan and layout. It communicates the area's history while setting the tone for the future of the up and coming neighborhood.

During construction, company President Rich Lynch was asked which type of wood should cover the concrete columns. He replied by saying Findorff was a construction company, not a bank -- leave the columns exposed; do not even erase the pencil markings.

Designed to compete

Exposed materials and workmanship showcase Findorff's products and services to clients. When touring the building, customers will ask for specific features like the inset black relief framing the concrete and baseboard, explained Jeff Tubbs, vice president of business development.

Productivity is enhanced by flexible office arrangements. Teams of workers relocate in collections of offices to work on individual projects, fostering efficient communication and problem solving. Magnetic nameplate holders allow for easy office moves. An open-door policy is achieved by the simple act of having no office doors (with only a few exceptions).

An attractive work environment is also critical to attracting talent in a very competitive market, said Tubbs. Young workers out of school value workplace amenities. Toward this end, the building communicates the message that Findorff values its employees.

First floor window views are not given to private offices. Instead, the lunch and workout rooms look across the bay. Photographs throughout the building show, not company projects, but employees. Field workers visiting the headquarters at company functions are pleased to see their pictures. Some even have their picture taken next to their photo on the wall.

In sum, the Findorff headquarters carefully considered location, design, materials and layout to communicate company image, foster productivity, and create an attractive work environment.

Derrick Van Mell is principal of Van Mell Associates, management consultants specializing in strategic facility decisions. Steve Steinhoff is executive director of the Neighborhood Design Center, helping communities become great places.