International Dairy Queen, Inc. Corporate Headquarters

These design elements are refined and sophisticated yet maintain a quirky edge, an aesthetic coined by the design team as “sophisti-kitsch.”

The Challenge

The design challenge was showing the joy of the DQ brand in a corporate setting that reinvents collaboration and attracts and retains top talent.

The ability of the space to envelope employees in an energetic and joyful environment was key for the client.

Project Vision

The team worked to integrate artfully designed brand and architectural elements in a way that was experiential and immersive, embracing the joy that is the DQ brand.

The design solution is felt the moment you enter the IDQ lobby, as you are greeted with a bright space filled with color and texture. A glimpse of the cake cone inspired ceiling design and details such as the lobby sofas in the iconic shape of the IDQ logo offer opportunities for the storytelling to begin.

Design & Execution

Step into the main workspace, and view the “World of Flavors” Dilly Bar brand installation, which subtly highlights many of the DQ store locations.

Destination spaces, such as two large work cafes, offer employees the chance to have a relaxing lunch while sitting in a s’mores inspired booth with marshmallow pillows and graham cracker tufted wall panels, or meet with colleagues at one of the tables equipped with a hidden monitor, raised electronically when needed.

As you continue through the space, the communicating stair with an awe-inspiring two-story wall clad in 3-D printed ice cream cones guides you to the north plaza where a lively space and community picnic table greet you.