As the world’s largest manufacturer of Food Waste Disposers and Instant Hot Water Systems, InSinkErator faced a unique challenge: how to innovate like a startup while owning the market. Having invented the food waste disposer business, their products are recognized worldwide for durability and design, however facing increasing competition, these qualities alone weren’t enough for InSinkErator to continue leading the industry.

Key to the innovation InSinkErator was seeking, collaboration was brought to the forefront of the process by placing the labs directly in the center of the building, with engineering workspaces surrounding the perimeter. A two-story glass wall provides a visual connection between the labs and their collaborators in engineering, while large-scale graphics create branded environments for visitors and staff. A centralized display area and work/café host meetings for larger groups, with smaller focus rooms, team rooms, informal gathering spaces, and visual project management boards scattered throughout the floorplan.

Designed to LEED Certification standards, the building features abundant daylight, views to the outdoors, a perimeter walking path through native plantings, energy efficient systems, and an energy exchanger to harvest heat energy produced by the labs.