Objective: CONTECH's new corporate headquarters are a far cry from the "nondescript one-story offices in the shadow of AK Steel headquarters" that was used to describe their corporate offices in a 2004 Cincinnati Enquirer article. Today, nearly 200 employees are relocated into 72,000 square feet of prime real estate in Union Centre (West Chester, OH).

"Rapid sales growth and business expansion resulted in the need for more efficient and accessible space for our employees and our business partners," said Pat Harlow, chairman, CEO and president of CONTECH.

Rich wood finishes, earthy colors and fabrics, stone, and etched glass all co- mingle to create an impressive, and beautifully detailed world headquarters.

Project and Products: OC delivered product and service in the following areas:

• Approximately 170 Xsite workstations and administrative areas with Wish seating from Kimball Office
• Kimball Office executive seating, side seating, and task chairs.
• Conference room tables, chairs, visual boards - all from Kimball Office.
• Reception seating from Lowenstein and Carolina.

Why the furniture worked: The flexibility of the Xsite workstation made it possible to create unique workspaces for different groups. For example, engineers who work with blueprints needed deeper 36" worksurfaces versus the standard 24" depth. In addition, the thermafoil worksurface with sloped edges provided greater employee comfort. The workstations could be personalized with Xsite accessories and tiles so that each group had the best configuration for their jobs. Storage lockers and extensive filing and overhead bins in every workstation provided ample storage while being aesthetically pleasing. Wood trim on the workstations complemented the use of wood throughout the offices to create an integrated, warm environment. In the executive area, wood panels - versus fabric - were used to create an even richer tone.

Why OstermanCron?: OstermanCron's deep product knowledge and attentive service gave CONTECH the confidence to partner with OC. Working closely with Casler Design, OC was able to specify the high-image furnishings that integrated beautifully into CONTECH's new headquarters.

Installation and Moving: Wessels Workplace Services handled the corporate move and office furniture installation.

Design: Casler Design