Yet the space must reflect success, he notes, because workers' compensation claims are long-term in nature—but not all insurers are. Some of MWECC's competitors have recently had financial difficulties.

That's why MWECC has to convey that "we're going to be here in 10 years, 20 years, even 40 years."

The Kimball Office Solution
Getting the strong, stable, successful look was easier than MWECC expected. Vonderheid tells how he, his CEO and CFO met to discuss where they could use laminates and other non-wood materials to save money.

"But the dealer showed us that Kimball Office is so strong in wood, we could get that striking appearance throughout for just pennies more."

The company chose Definition casegoods and Conferencing Solutions for its executive offices and conference rooms because the "fit, finish and craftsmanship were striking." Kimball Office's e-magine space planning software was used extensively to show MWECC how the executive areas would look.

Xsite systems furniture, accented with matching wood, completes the facility. "Everything matches perfectly, every detail. The whole facility has a family feeling," Vonderheid notes.

As for functionality, "The work spaces are so efficient and flexible, I have yet to hear one single complaint," says Vonderheid. "That's even though we've been through two renewal periods, our busiest times. And people just love the wood!"

Product Specifications: Definition^® casegoods; Xsite^® systems; Conferencing Solutions; Footprint^® worksurfaces and storage; Acapella^® and Coliseum^® seating.

Project Team: Interiors Unlimited, St. Louis; Gray Design, St. Louis