Fortune 100 Corporate World Headquarters

The Overview:

Designed by Eero Saarinen in the early 1960s, this World Headquarters is widely regarded as an architectural masterpiece, an enduring symbol of modern corporate design. The main floor had remained largely untouched since its original construction, preserving Saarinen’s vision while no longer fully supporting contemporary ways of working.

Pigott was engaged to assist in thoughtfully modernizing the main floor while honoring the integrity, proportions, and architectural language of the original building. In close collaboration with Substance Architecture, the team reimagined the space to support more open, flexible, and collaborative work styles, balancing innovation with preservation to ensure the building’s legacy remained intact.

The Solution:

A Thoughtful Design Approach
Working within a Saarinen-designed building required a thoughtful approach that respected the original architecture while carefully integrating contemporary workplace solutions. Every design decision was guided by the need to respect the original architecture, its scale, rhythm, and material expression, while subtly introducing new functionality.

Classic Saarinen furniture pieces were intentionally reintroduced into the space, reinforcing the architectural narrative and creating a direct visual connection between the building and its interior environment. These iconic elements sit comfortably alongside contemporary furnishings like Herman Miller Canvas Vista workstations, reinforcing the idea that historic design and modern work styles can coexist.

Custom Solutions Through Collaboration
A defining aspect of the project was the integration of Falkbuilt’s prefabricated wall systems within the building. Pigott+Falkbuilt collaborated with the client and Substance Architecture to evolve the Falkbuilt system to align with the existing architecture.

This included the development of a slimmer wall profile, which is now a standard for Falk, called the Falkbuilt Shadow Wall. This is an innovative solution created specifically to echo the look and feel of the original walls while delivering modern performance. Custom aluminum connection points and modified infrastructure solutions allowed the new system to integrate into the space without disrupting the historic structure.

Throughout the process, Pigott+Falkbuilt, the client, and Substance Architecture collaborated closely, working through full-scale mock-ups, real-time design sessions, and a comprehensive digital flythrough to ensure alignment before installation.

Reimaging The Workplace Experience
The renovation reflects a significant shift in how work can happen within a space. Once a conventional layout, the environment now supports a variety of work modes, including open collaboration areas, team rooms, informal meeting spaces, and group gathering zones. A key part of this transformation was the development of a kit of parts for private offices, designed to support multiple layouts using the same core components. This approach allows the environment to adapt over time while maintaining visual consistency and reducing the need for future rebuilds.

An unassigned seating strategy paired with sit-to-stand workstations supports employee choice, mobility, and ergonomics. Existing furniture was selectively refreshed with updated finishes, reinforcing continuity while extending product life. Accessories and layered details were carefully curated to introduce warmth and comfort, softening the modernist architecture without competing with it.

A Balanced Evolution
This renovation demonstrates how a historically significant building can evolve to meet modern needs without losing its identity. Through careful planning, deep collaboration, and respect for design history, Pigott helped transform the space into a flexible, human-centered workplace that feels both contemporary and timeless.

The project stands as an example of Pigott’s ability to navigate complexity, balancing legacy and innovation to create spaces that honor the past while supporting the future.

Featured Products:

• Herman Miller: Canvas Wall Private Office, Canvas Vista Workstations, Mirra Task Seating
• Knoll: Womb Chairs, Saarinen Chairs & Tables, Rockwell Tables
• Davis: Lounge Seating & Bar Stools, Collaboration Tables & Laptop Tables
• Andreu World: Side Chairs & Café Stools
• Stylex: Modular Lounge Seating
• OFS: Conference Seating & Credenza Units
• Arcadia: Modular Sofa & Poufs
• Watson: Height Adjustable Conference Tables
• Scandinavian Designs: Modular Lounge Seating
• Barcelona Game Tables
• Accessories: Custom Pillow & Accessory Choices

Featured Services:

• Planning & Design
• 3D Visualization Tools
• Falkbuilt 3D Visualization & Digital Flythroughs
• Project Management
• Delivery & Installation
• Electrical, Voice & Data Consulting

Design Partner: Substance Architecture

Contractor: Russell

Photographer: © Corey Gaffer Photography