Penn State Office of Human Resources, State College, PA

Project Completion: 2017

As Penn State looked to consolidate its Human Resources Department to a new location off campus, it turned to HLA for help in planning a 40,000-square-foot, two-story office space in Innovation Park to house more than 150 personnel. Bringing together the HR staff under one roof for the first time was a significant cultural shift. Our interior designer worked closely with two steering committees and the Vice President of Human Resources to develop a layout and furniture plan that would support new job roles, improve workflow, and encourage collaboration. HLA was asked to present the design and explain the benefits of consolidation to the entire HR staff at a Town Hall style meeting.
 

The open office concept established standard individual workstations and created a variety of shared spaces including break out areas, focus rooms, and conference rooms that offer employees choice and flexibility for working, meeting, and respite. The design features bright colors and comfortable, modern furnishings. Color-coded areas within the carpet indicate how spaces are used. Two large break rooms with fully functional kitchens provide places for meals, social events, or informal meetings. HLA managed the entire furniture procurement process for Penn State, including design, bid spec package creation, quality control, qualifying of potential alternates, and installation.