Nestle's underutilized Discovery Center in Marysville is now home to the company's flexible and immersive space for educational events, product tasting research and executive meetings.

WSA designed a warm and collaborative space for the Nestle offices in Marysville, Ohio.

Endeavor 1918 is the event center and secondary workspace for The Nestlé Discovery Center in Marysville, Ohio. Located on the first floor of the Research and Development site, Endeavor 1918 is where Nestlé hosts educational events, product tasting research, and executive meetings in order to rapidly integrate findings back into a product’s development process. The space was previously not utilized to its full potential, with a minimal number of events scheduled and limited day-to-day functionality for employees.

WSA worked with Nestle to transform the Discovery Center into a space that can support more events and a variety of flexible uses. The final concept focused on a radial plan where the most energetic spaces were concentrated in the center of the floorplan with subsequent spaces becoming quieter further away from the core. Designed after spaces in which Nestle products are typically consumed – home kitchens, offices, and cafes – guests and employees are immersed in the end-consumer experience.

An expanded 14-person tasting bar is prominently centered with surrounding flexible hoteling spaces. Industrial light fixtures from the main lobby are mirrored above the tasting bar, connecting the two spaces together. Glass-paneled, sliding doors and mobile furniture facilitate a seamless transition from banquets and tastings to private meetings and individual workspaces. Plush upholstered furniture, exposed wood, and a sprinkling of greenery bolster a relaxed environment for ideation. A well-stocked coffee bar, writable surfaces, and AV equipment are on standby to guide new ideas to fruition.

Nestle was immediately able to host weekly product tastings and offer more variety and comfort to their employees with their new multi-functional center. By integrating themselves into their customers’ residential setting, employees are inspired with new product creations. Unique features, like the collaborative corner and semi-private booths, provide the perfect work environment to fit a variety of team needs. This new, agile work style is spreading through out the company and creating a welcomed rise in productivity and retention.

Design: WSA

Contractor: Ferguson Construction

Photography: Cory Klein, Kate Horgan

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