Where you work has a big effect on how you work. At Smartpress, the online division of The Bernard Group, we aimed to create a modern workplace design that went beyond typical office decor. Our solution? A totally custom and interactive timeline wall designed to narrate our company history, highlight our premium printing capabilities and cultivate a stronger sense of pride among our team. Here’s how we leveraged our diverse signage products to achieve this, and how you can implement similar strategies.
“The timeline illustrates our expansion, diversification and commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in print, design, fabrication and millwork.”
The Power of Intentional Workplace Design
Before we had the idea for a timeline wall- which is far more than simple wall graphics- we considered the fundamental aspects of workplace design.
- What does it encompass?
- What makes it effective?
- How does it benefit the people actually working in and around it daily?
We recognized an opportunity to transcend mere office branding. By utilizing an impressive array of our business printing services and custom fabrication capabilities, we crafted a visual display that embodies Smartpress’ core values and engaging culture, illustrates our growth trajectory, and quite frankly, looks cool.
“We thought it would be helpful to visually showcase the journey that has brought us to where we are today,” said Smartpress Vice President Matt Chapman. “As a division of The Bernard Group (TBG), the timeline illustrates our expansion, diversification and commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in print, design, fabrication and millwork.”
The Idea: Envisioning the Interactive Timeline Wall
In collaboration with TBG, Smartpress integrated custom printing and manufacturing expertise to envision a built-in cabinet system spanning three wall sections in the Smartpress offices. This design included lower cabinets with routered fronts, topped with display cases featuring acrylic windows and upper floating shelves.
We’d place print marketing materials on the shelves and within the display cases that could be refreshed as needed. A metal strip on the face of the shelves would enable the magnetic displays for additional materials, adding an interactive element. But we didn’t stop there.
At one end of the fixture, we imagined a dynamic corrugated feature wall with interchangeable cards, while the opposite end would feature a backlit Smartpress logo wall wrapped in wood veneer. A centralized wide acrylic strip, illuminated from behind, would showcase key milestones etched into the surface that would glow from backlighting.
(Yes, we’re passionate about detail!)
Hint: Interested in custom fixtures for your retail or corporate environment? Contact The Bernard Group.
The Design: Blending Aesthetics and Functionality
To kick off the design process, we entrusted Smartpress graphic designer, Nate Johannes. Tasked with creating a workplace design that served as both a compelling visual marketing piece and a representation of our company culture, Johannes drew inspiration from a variety of sources.
“Primarily, we sought inspiration from high-end designed retail interiors like Apple and Nike flagship stores,” he said. “We were also influenced by art galleries that have a unique blend of showcasing many types of artwork with modular systems that evolve over time.”
And because we love a challenge, we wanted to incorporate multiple print substrates into the design, adding even more complexity to the whole project. Johannes said finding a balance between aesthetics and functionality was crucial:
“We wanted it to be not only visually appealing, but also practical and functional. We wanted to create a design that would engage viewers on multiple levels, so we considered aspects like traffic flow, ease of interaction and sightlines throughout the space to really lead us to our design decisions on which products to feature and where.”
To “transform the space by creating an immersive and impactful environment,” Johannes’ design included an array of Smartpress’ custom signage options, including wall decals, honeycomb cardboard signs, cardstock signs, aluminum signs, hanging banners, clear acrylic signs, PVC foam signs and metal prints.
The Build: Where Printing Expertise Meets Manufacturing Precision
Bringing Johannes’ workplace design concept to life was the responsibility of TBG Millwork Manager, Jeremy Olson. By seamlessly integrating Smartpress’ custom printing services with TBG’s manufacturing prowess, Olson highlighted how the installation exemplifies our client offerings:
“This project very well defines what our equipment and people are capable of. We’re typically tasked with budget-minded retail displays, but this project exceeds in elegance and really displays our range of capabilities.”
With so many details, the timeline wall begs visitors to get up close and personal with it. It’s those details that highlight the expert execution that TBG does day in and day out. Olson said the proficiency spans multiple specialties:
“From the equipment used to make complex cuts for the doors, to the skilled craftsmanship needed to assemble components that create the angled wedge and miter folded corners of the feature pieces, to the fine detail needed to create a superior quality finish from the people in our finishing department.”
Hint: Sustainability is integral to our printing and manufacturing processes, including the creation of our timeline wall.See how we work to lessen our environmental impact: Green Goals: An Inside Look at Our Environmental Management System.
“I’m wowed by the design and craftsmanship. It instills a sense of pride as a co-owner.”
The Results
When we embarked on an updated workplace design, a key consideration was fostering a positive and inspiring work environment. This timeline wall was conceived not only for visitors and clients but also our Smartpress employees (who get to actually walk by or work near it every single day).
Johannes expressed his confidence in the project’s impact upon completion. “The whole thing is a showstopper. When the cabinet doors were installed, my jaw hit the floor,” he said. “The overall vision for the space has been brought to life in a big way!”
Olson eagerly anticipated the initial reactions, and feedback from Smartpress Account Executive Lisa Timek assured it’s a positive one.
“It’s absolutely stunning! I didn’t know what to expect, but it’s awesome to now see it in all its glory,” Timek said. “As I walk by, I’m wowed by the design and craftsmanship. It instills a sense of pride as a co-owner.”
The feeling was mutual for Smartpress Customer Experience Specialist Jacob Rider: “Seeing the timeline every day is refreshing. From where I sit, I’m one quick eye movement away from seeing the logo that symbolizes the team I have the honor of being a part of every day.”
Beyond its visual appeal, the display effectively achieved the core design objective of communicating Smartpress’ identity and our progress over the years.
“I think this is going to be wonderful for not only TBG employees, but also customers and clients to see just what we’re doing and the incredible history that Smartpress has the privilege of telling,” said Rider.
Hint: Our work environment extends beyond the physical space; it’s integral to our overall business philosophy. Discover the benefits of partnering with an employee-owned company: ESOP: What are the Benefits of Working with an Employee-Owned Company?
The Lasting Impact of Strategic Workplace Design
As Rider noted, our new timeline wall will have a significant impact on clients and customers, no matter their business, no matter their industry. It’s something Chapman is looking forward to – a workplace design that has lasting effects.
“The timeline wall is a tangible representation of our commitment to excellence, innovation and continuous growth. It communicates that we’re not just a provider of print solutions, but also a dynamic and forward-thinking company invested in clients’ success,” he said. “Showcasing samples of our small and large format print products, along with our visual merchandising expertise, reflects our dedication to quality and attention to detail.”
The timeline wall’s adaptability is also part of its lasting effect. Designed with sustainability in mind and the ability to be reconfigured, it can accommodate future achievements and milestones – something essential for Chapman.
“It sparks curiosity and invites dialogue about the evolution of Smartpress and the broader capabilities of TBG. For both new and long-time employees, it’s a living history of our shared successes.”
Who knew a visual display could do all that?
Tell Your Company’s Story with The Bernard Group & Smartpress
Transform your office into an immersive experience that celebrates your journey, showcases your capabilities, and inspires your team. Contact us today to explore how custom workplace signage and fixture development can bring your unique company story to life.