The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) enforces and encourages equitable, healthy, and safe working and living environments. To transform the agency’s existing workplace and better support the work of DLI employees, BWBR facilitated a workplace study and master plan that identified opportunities to better align the space with their agency business objectives. The implemented buildout welcomes DLI’s employees and clients into a caring, supportive, and energizing community that invites open dialogues and interdisciplinary activities.

Promoting wellbeing strategies and enhancing the employee experience were top priorities. By lowering cubicle walls and replacing conference room walls with glass, the entire space became more transparent and accessible to exterior daylight. Physical movement is encouraged through different work setting options, including sit-to-stand desks and lounge areas. The addition of work cafes on every floor support the workplace community atmosphere and create opportunities for team building in a casual setting. Historical photo murals celebrate the common laborer and inspire today’s DLI employees to continue to advance the rights of all employees.

New conference rooms and open collaboration spaces promote a culture of knowledge sharing and innovation, while focus rooms and booths give staff new opportunities to perform private work tasks. Technology improvements support a variety of work styles and functions. A newly designated Agile space supports DLI’s modernization efforts.