Cargill Protein Headquarters is a Regional Expression with Modern Updates

As the design team was beginning work on a new headquarters for Cargill Protein, the subsidiary was going through a rebrand from Cargill Meat Solutions. The signage and experiential graphics had to support this rebrand, and the group’s own unique personality, within the Cargill family. The bathroom walls and cubicles are lined with 1750 recycled painted metal rods. A green terrazzo floor and vanity, mint accents and bespoke lights create a retro design with modern updates.

Working collaboratively with interiors, architecture and landscape, the branded graphics and signage become inseparable from experience. The design theme ‘families feeding families’ drove the approach and ties employees to others in the Protein process, such as the farmers, ranchers, chefs, scientists and engineers. A 28-foot-wide custom art display of ceramic plates symbolizes where Cargill Protein’s work meets the consumer – on the plate. 

These plates, like other design elements, are sourced locally and reference the landscape, animals, textures, materials and details that are found in the supply chain. Working with local artists and materials further enhance the sense of place and connection with the Cargill Protein brand, like the rancher’s rope that is used to create an abstracted three-dimensional landscape mural or the custom triptych of the rolling Flint Hills.  The creative application of Cargill brand standards further connects the group to the larger Cargill brand for global consistency and local relevance. Hand-drawn sketches are married with corporate brand guidelines to create a regional expression that is both authentic and humble. Together, they create a holistic picture and authentic expression that is uniquely Cargill Protein. 

Project Information

Architect: HOK