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Influence of Design: Chamberlain's Innovation and Design Center

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For their new Innovation and Design Center, Chamberlain, the largest international manufacturer of garage and gate door openers, embraced a dynamic and team centered workplace. Located near the Chamberlain headquarters in Elmhurst, IL, the Innovation and Design Center was converted from a former car dealership into an energy efficient and cost effective building.

To transform the un-insulated service garage into a comfortable design studio, a raised flooring system was implemented, housing the mechanical services underneath. The previous car showroom now showcases Chamberlain’s state-of-the-art prototype displays and acts as a major focal point providing clients and visitors with the opportunity to experience Chamberlain's products first hand.

The goal of the project was to increase the rate of innovation and product expansion, and to reduce cycle times for design, evaluation, development and production. The seamless integration of space promotes collaboration between departments and disciplines. The open floor plan allows for cross-functional team interaction and promotes a free flow of ideas. Multi-use pods, war rooms, a “mosh-pit,” conference areas, and temporary work stations were introduced to provide team adjacencies, maximize flexibility, and accommodate rapid change. As a leading technology company, Chamberlain wanted to push the envelope of the design of its space as they do with the design of its products.