The North Face operates out of headquarters in Appleton, WI and until recently shared space with another VF brand, Jansport. To accommodate growth in The North Face division, a separate and larger space was needed. A large, enclosed mezzanine housing corporate records was allocated for the build-out.

Randy Sahotsky, Safety & Environment Manager for Jansport, managed the project from pre-design phase planning through final install. He selected the EBI team to provide interior design services and over 100 refurbished Steelcase work-stations, private office, conference and break-room furniture, and HON seating. Randy let us put the "spotlight" on him and discusses the project with us:

EBI: How long have you been with Jansport?

Randy: Thirty-three years, since 1977. I started as a stock-boy in the warehouse when Jansport just made t-shirts. Managing moves and build-outs has been part of my role for the last 15-16 years.

EBI: How many major renovations or new additions have you project managed?

Randy:  A dozen, about 12.

EBI: Can you describe the scope of the project and why from a business standpoint the build-out was necessary?

Randy: Taking The North Face customer service operations from a shared work-space to a brand-specific work-space was the purpose from a business standpoint. The North Face had growth potential that was being limited due to space restraints.

EBI: How were the occupants of the space, The North Face customer service team, involved in the decision making of the build-out?

Randy: Mike Blaine, the director of customer service for The North Face, selected Kim, Keri and Nicole, supervisors and operations manager for the group, to be the design committee. They worked closely with me and the EBI team to work out the space planning, product selection and final finish selection.

EBI: What were some of the successes you saw with this project?

Randy: I normally don't have help with the interior design so it was a relief to work with professional designers and an in-house design committee. The refurbished furniture that EBI provided was a big help to the budget. The open space that the plan allows for was a nice surprise. Typically none of our spaces have had any more room than narrow aisles. This floor-plan has wide aisles and open areas where people can gather and talk. There is also a conference room and some offices that people can meet in for formal or unplanned meetings. The occupants are enjoying the open space. The group has almost doubled in size now that they have room to put people. They were using a 3rd party call center because they did not have places for additional employees to sit. It's added unity to the group because now the separate teams can sit together. The group feels more valued now that they have their own space. These successes were a nice surprise.

EBI: What were some of the challenges?

Randy: Budget. Juggling the expectations with the budget.

EBI: How do you feel you met those expectations?

Randy: We exceeded them!

EBI: Were you able to divert construction waste from the landfill, such as old carpeting or furniture?

Randy: The original space had no carpet, just a concrete floor. It was a build-out so there was little construction debris. The original space had a number of older work stations that EBI removed for us and will refurbish and put back on the market. So we did divert the old furniture from the waste stream and I know that LEED certification will be considered for the next new building.

EBI: The North Face mezzanine build-out incorporated some strong design elements with the bold use of The North Face trademark red on accent walls and upholstery. What was the reaction from occupants when they first saw the space?

Randy: Everyone liked it. The finishes are authentic to the brand and are an extension of the corporate office. They are enjoying the upgrade and open concept which has created a more collaborative environment.

EBI: Have you seen any changes in productivity or work-flow in the new space?

Randy: A little quieter, more efficient, less distractions. In their previous space, employees from all over the company would walk through to get to other places in the building and that was distracting and disruptive. Now they are not in a through-way and their work space is a closed off, separate area. This has made everyone more efficient.

EBI: What advice do you have for first time "move-managers" who are preparing to manage a build-out in their company?

Randy: Make it as collaborative as possible between internal stakeholders and contractors. Involve the occupants, designers and contractors. Pre-design phase planning is important. The more people you involve in the design phase, the fewer complications you have during the construction phase. Make sure you put the right people on your project team.

EBI: How did this project compare to others?

Randy: It's my favorite one!

Thanks for your time Randy!