The driving element of Daimler Trucks’ new North American Headquarters was the retooling of the company’s workplace design—a transformation more than a decade in the making. Ankrom Moisan’s long-standing relationship with Daimler allowed the designers to absorb the organization’s culture and business model, and Daimler was finally ready to shift direction and move into a more open,
collaborative workplace.

Ankrom Moisan’s design team led a visioning exercise with Daimler’s Mod Squad, a cross-section of their younger employees who are helping steer Daimler’s culture to attract and retain the best talent. Over a six-week period AMA listened and helped identify the essence of Daimler North America and what sets it apart from its global partner, Daimler Corp. The outcome is a building shaped by the needs of the people who use it.

Designed from the inside out, the workplace interiors drove the architecture: the building’s depth and orientation allow for the best views and daylighting. Solid walls are perpendicular to the glazing, and an off-set core allowed the team to fit more workstations along the river-facing windows. Closed rooms are placed in the center of the floor plate to avoid blocking views and sunlight. An open, interconnected stairway links office floors, and team collaboration space was increased on all levels. An employee-accessible deck on each floor provides team members a view of the river and outdoor spaces for breaks or casual meetings.

Reflecting on Daimler North America’s connection to Daimler Corp. and the company’s international reputation for efficient, high-quality vehicles, the finished headquarters operates much like Daimler’s trucks: there is simplicity within all the complex detailing.