We create great places to work because we are a great place to work.
In 2023, Custer was the recipient of the Steelcase Premier Partnership award for top performance in the previous year. The Premier Partners program has proven to strengthen our dealer partnership with the leading contract furniture manufacturer in the world, aligning us with Steelcase core values and bringing superior value to our customers.
While all Steelcase dealers in the United States and Canada routinely meet high standards for quality and performance, Custer is proud to be among a small sample of Authorized Steelcase Dealers that stood out as extraordinary partners in 2022 – all of which consistently engage with Steelcase, their customers, influencers, and community to deliver exceptional value.
Custer remains proud of our commitment and leadership in achieving the criteria for this prestigious award. Our entire team is exceedingly grateful for the opportunity to continue supporting our loyal customers, and empowering the work they do.
Letter From the CEO + President
We're capable partners because we've experimented, created, and adapted across our own culture–bringing forward the best of what we've learned.
Dear Reader,
As we set off to begin a new year, I'd like to take a moment to reflect on our team’s incredible commitment to our customers and the community. As we look back on 2023, we find ourselves not just reflecting on a year of remarkable achievements but preparing to embark on an even more exhilarating chapter in 2024.
Since 1981, our commitment to excellence has been the heartbeat of our success. Our people, at the pulse of our organization, have seamlessly woven our core values into the fabric of our company culture. Together, we continue to champion the belief that exceptional spaces are the catalysts for our customers to achieve their best.
Throughout the past year, our team has passionately embraced the Custer "WHY," elevating our customers' experiences in ways that resonate with our ethos:
We ignited breakthrough designs and fostered close-knit collaborations, breathing life into our customers' brands through personalized spaces that speak volumes.
We dove into the realms of culture and space, seeking innovative ways to elevate well-being and enable our customers to cultivate physical, emotional, and cognitive health within their workplaces.
Our exploration of human-centered design became a driving force, propelling growth and promoting innovation across every environment we touched.
Rooted in the belief that community lies at the core of our existence, we extended our impact into Education, Economic Mobility, and Health Resources.
As we step boldly into 2024, our passion, commitment, and core values stand unwavering, forming the foundation for an inspired team ready to conquer challenges, pioneer innovations, and achieve new milestones. But before we plunge into the excitement that the future holds, let’s celebrate some of this year’s highlights that defined our 42nd year in business.
Gratefully,
Todd Custer President + CEO
"We truly valued the knowledge of the design team as well as their ability to listen to our needs. Custer worked with our staff to come up with solutions that meet our needs. They are always very professional, pleasant to work with and give customers a top-notch experience."
T.C. Hungerford Nichols
When we set out to renovate our Grand Rapids showroom, we had one major goal in mind: to create a workspace where our employees really wanted to be. So, we began at the source, our team members.
Through surveys and conversations, we discovered that employees wanted more places for meetings, acoustic privacy, biophilic design, and a dedicated resident workspace. This feedback fueled our Showroom Team's design plans as they experimented, designed, and ultimately adapted the office our team would feel excited and inspired by.
Within the new space, we added more conference rooms, along with open meeting and social spaces to encourage innovation and provide more opportunities for togetherness in a more casual setting. Natural light, warm colors, a mix of textures, and plenty of plants create a calm, inviting atmosphere that elevates worker well-being. Additional privacy pods, touchdown spots, and assigned workstations offer more personalized spaces for quiet, heads-down focus time in a variety of postures.
Our new workspace was the perfect opportunity to push the boundaries of design, create something special for our employees, and collectively reconnect to our culture. The fivephase renovation was completed in February of 2024.
Here's how we personalized some of our customer's spaces in 2023
Vibrant design for visionaries in ending the silence around mental health
Project Partners:
CS Erickson | Tim Brinks Builders
Product Partners:
The now co-owners of SpeaksOut made a bold decision over dinner: to tackle the mental health crisis by sparking a social movement.
They were aware of the challenges they would face, including opposition from skeptics and critics. However, they recognized the potential of a unique strategy that had never been attempted on such a large scale. With determination, they confronted the issue head-on and never wavered. Just like that, SpeaksOut was officially born to end the silence around mental health.
The owners of SpeaksOut contacted Custer for help in realizing their vision of launching a new business in a recently constructed building. The location of the building was highly sought after, situated in the heart of downtown Ada.
The built-in wet bar and kitchen were custom-designed by Beth Godfrey and Jody Poole, and both featured beautiful textural backsplashes, well-planned cabinetry, floating shelves, and stunning countertops made of leather-textured granite and butcher block.
Large windows provide visitors and employees with plenty of access to sunlight throughout the space.
The floor plan was intentionally designed to provide ample space to accommodate large community events, but also be flexible enough for small teams to gather and collaborate.
Products designed into this space with the customer’s needs in mind include height-adjustable desks, West Elm Greenpoint, Flex Active Frame, custom built-in cabinetry, accent rugs, lighting fixtures, and accessories.
The team at SpeaksOut were fantastic collaborators on this project and we stand behind their mission. Their encouragement and support allowed us to explore our imaginations and unleash our creativity to the fullest extent. It was an incredibly enjoyable and fulfilling experience, and we are proud of the work they are doing to support the community.
Steelcase, West Elm, Moooi, FLOS, Coalesse, Blu Dot, Renegade/Uhuru, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, Viccarbe, FLOR tiles, and Milliken
Classroom furniture; a tool for learning
Traverse City Area Public Schools K-8 Montessori Traverse City, MI
Project Partners:
Diekema-Hamann Architecture + Engineering | Miller-Davis Company
Product Partners:
Steelcase, Smith System, Jonti-Craft, Palmer Hamilton, Media Technologies, Fomcore, and Norva Nivel
Over the course of twenty-five years, the Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) Montessori K-8 program grew exponentially from just twenty students to more than 800. Originally housed in an isolated corner of another elementary school, their newly constructed building was designed specifically with Montessori learning methods in mind and features large classrooms, wide hallways, and a seasoned staff.
Because of Montessori’s unique learning approach, the Custer team invested quite a bit of time during the initial phases of the project gathering information from instructors and researching specifics with manufacturers. As a result, each product was carefully selected to support and enhance the educational process, optimized for agility and fluidity within the classroom.
Fostering independent play, group activities, and utilizing specific specialty learning materials are a signature of the Montessori method, and these were also considered when choosing furniture.
Rather than thinking of the products as just a place to sit or surface to write on, the furniture needed to become a tool for learning. More traditional educational equipment, like desks and chairs, to more unique solutions like climbers and tumble mats, were sourced from Custer’s portfolio of furniture vendors.
Custer provided products for every touchpoint throughout the school, including the library, staff office, classrooms, ancillary spaces, and cafeteria.
Height-adjustable work surfaces and child-centered furniture options were worked into the intentionally designed floor plan to ensure that the furniture can grow alongside the students.
In September 2023, TCAPS Montessori will welcome students for the first time ever into their new facility. And they couldn’t be more excited. The new building exceeds their wildest dreams of beauty, functionality, and practicality of an educational setting. And they have furniture to match.
Custer brought Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy's (GTRLC) flagship office interior to life by ushering nature indoors.
GTRLC serves five counties in idyllic northern Michigan, acting as a protector of ecologically significant scenic farmlands. Its new offices sit atop their 242-acre preserve within the stunning Mitchell Creek Meadows, land that the organization saved from the threat of development.
In collaboration with the Environment Architect Group, this project was largely inspired by a complimentary earth-focused color palette as well as the philosophy of the organization.
Interior solutions that bring the outside in
Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy
Traverse City, MI
It was important to GTRLC to incorporate products that would reflect their ethos of advancing stewardship now and for future generations, while highlighting and celebrating the beauty and natural growth that surrounds them.
Not only is this a workplace, but it serves the northern Michigan community and is open to the public. GTRLC functions as a place to host meetings and trainings for benefactors, volunteers, and faculty. So, spaces for collaboration, along with typical office work areas, were necessary.
Simple yet stunning, this space embodies northern Michigan in its simple and understated roots and complimentary earth-focused color palette.
Because the building’s surroundings are so beautiful, conference room seating, office furniture, and ancillary area furniture was sourced and placed to take advantage of the meadow setting sights.
Fomcore,
Engaging and adaptable education solutions
Fremont Christian School | Fremont, MI
During the renovation project at Fremont Christian Schools, our installation schedule was carefully coordinated around the school’s calendar, taking the presence of students into consideration.
Seeking assistance, Fremont Christian Schools was referred to us through Muskegon Christian School and faced a pressing need for new furniture across two buildings. With available funds, they aimed to revitalize their spaces.
Collaborating closely with partners like Smith System, Fleetwood, and Fomcore, our focus was to enhance flexibility, functionality, and create inviting environments. This involved comprehensive upgrades to the spaces, making them more adaptable, practical, and enjoyable.
Our solutions encompassed the installation of all-new classroom furniture, spanning across various classrooms, media centers, and communal areas, ensuring a cohesive and comfortable learning environment.
The project stands out for its endearing appeal, exuding a notably charming aesthetic.
The result of this project showcases an array of classroom furniture including tables, chairs, storage units, and lounge furniture, enhancing both utility and ambiance.
Product partners such as Smith System, Fleetwood, and Fomcore brought quality and diversity in furnishing options.
The project was driven by Custer-led design expertise, ensuring a tailored and effective transformation of learning spaces.
Product Partners: Smith System, Fleetwood, and Fomcore
Cascade Charter Township, in the process of building its new Fire Station, sought assistance from Custer to address their furnishing needs.
Responding to their requirements, we submitted a furniture bid tailored to outfit the new location in a way that fit the needs of the space and its employees.
We facilitated solutions for key areas such as Private Offices, the Lobby, and a Training Room, ensuring functional and purpose-driven spaces.
The solution for this space encompassed traditional private office setups, aligning with the functional needs of the Fire Station’s working environment.
Product partners featured in this project include furniture solutions from Egan, Great Openings, Kimball, and Sit on It.
Cascade Charter Township Fire Station | Grand Rapids, MI
New administrative spaces for fire department
Project Partners:
Williams Architects
Product Partners:
Egan, Great Openings, Kimball, and Sit on It
Central Mutual Insurance embarked on a significant overhaul of its workspace, aiming to overcome barriers inhibiting seamless collaboration among its teams. Despite minor setbacks caused by delayed deliveries, the project advanced steadily towards completion.
Prior to enlisting Custer’s expertise, Central Mutual Insurance faced a workspace layout unsuitable for collaborative work dynamics. Their requirements called for a transition towards a fresh workstation style, incorporating height-adjustable desks, compact and collaborative cubicles for the marketing team, and flexible breakout zones catering to varying privacy needs.
To meet these challenges head-on, we introduced larger bullpenstyle workstations equipped with height-adjustable desk bases and lowered panels. These workstations were designed to encourage interaction and collaboration, featuring shared tables. Additionally, breakout areas were seamlessly integrated, complemented by flex markerboards and tackable panels, facilitating diverse interaction styles within the workspace.
Our contributions to this project extended beyond physical layouts to also create breakout spaces and collaborative zones adorned with soft seating–fostering an environment conducive to brainstorming and teamwork.
Strategically positioned height-adjustable desks optimized functionality and comfort across the workspace, ensuring a dynamic and adaptable environment.
The product solutions showcased the utilization of slim heightadjustable desks in private offices, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. Noteworthy additions included custom tables seamlessly integrated with power sources. Moreover, the strategic use of Flex Markerboards and tackable panels in multiple areas further enriched the workspace’s adaptability and versatility.
This transformation went beyond resolving the customer’s initial challenges, ultimately creating an environment that not only encourages collaboration but also embodies flexibility and functionality—a testament to our unwavering commitment to empowering people to do their best work.
Project Partners: MKM Architecture
Product Partners: Steelcase, Enwork, Humanscale, and Bernardt Design
"Working with Custer is consistently a high quality experience. I especially appreciate the install team's use of maps where the furniture goes and using those in each room to keep us up to date."
P.L.
Boyne City Schools
With the recent merger of Custer and Century Flooring, our team at Custer is excited to offer a more holistic approach to commercial interior solutions. The new partnership has further enhanced our portfolio of service offerings, which includes design, furniture and accessories, architectural solutions, flooring, transformation services, integrated technology, delivery, and installation.
Starting 2024 with a more comprehensive range of services allows for greater synergy and efficiency by addressing a customer’s entire interior space. Our valued customers can enjoy one seamless solution, from design through installation, as we deliver spaces that support a better way of working.
For more information about our newly strengthened service offerings or to schedule a consultation, contact us at www.custerinc.com/contact
"I
have worked with Custer on many projects from large scale to single offices. From initial start they always meet or exceed our expectations."
M.N.
Interior Design Project Manager
Big Rapids residents now have easy access to quality healthcare at the new Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health) Big Rapids Care Center.
Created with convenience in mind, the 33,000-square-foot facility houses Big Rapids Family Medicine, outpatient lab, radiology, outpatient rehabilitation, occupational health, and urgent care.
Custer collaborated with architectural firm Smith Group and product partners Steelcase, Stance, and StudioCraft to conceive a cuttingedge space that would ultimately make a trip to the doctor, lab, or occupational therapist as efficient and effective as possible.
Upon arrival, patients are greeted by digital registration kiosks and in-person registration bays, outfitted with supportive task chairs and adjustable desks, to accommodate a continuous flow of check-in traffic.
Cutting-edge care center in Big Rapids
A community room and assorted conference rooms, featuring mobile conference room tables and flexible seating options, offer space for events and team meetings.
All of the exam rooms are identically arranged, allowing providers to easily pop into any room and conduct a visit—in person or virtually—without having to search for items.
Throughout the building, a variety of comfortable seating options fill the waiting areas. Staff spaces, including private offices, team desk areas, and a comfortable lounge, provide areas for quiet focus or to unwind and connect with coworkers during the day.
Furniture installation was completed in July 2023 and the facility opened to patients in August 2023.
Corewell Health | Big Rapids, MI
Project Partners: Granger Construction | Smith Group
Product Partners: Steelcase, Stance, and StudioCraft
*photos by John D'Angelo
Custer collaborated with Muskegon Christian School to bring a fresh and functional aesthetic to their classrooms and common areas.
This transformative project, completed in January 2023, involved a creative approach to furniture through the thoughtful product solutions, which were specifically designed into the space to support student learning and collaboration.
Services we provided included furniture, Custer-led design, and meticulous installation.
The furniture installation was strategically planned during the school’s Holiday break of the 2022-2023 school year, delivering the newly furnished spaces before students returned to finish the school year.
Muskegon Christian School faced the challenge of allocating COVID relief funding (EANS) for non-public schools towards the purchase of new furniture for their facility.
Transformative education solutions
Muskegon Christian School | Muskegon, MI
Private schools often navigate unique challenges when it comes to adopting new elements. Our solution involved guiding them through the purchasing process, and utilizing education-specific product lines to ensure high-quality, durable furnishings that align with the school’s culture and branding, and will withstand the test of time.
Our team’s expertise extended across various spaces, including classrooms throughout the school, a daycare room, library, commons area, as well as counselors’ and front office spaces.
The goal was to create an environment that fosters learning, collaboration, and a bright, positive atmosphere.
This project is not just about classroom furniture; it’s about empowering an institution with the tools and environment needed for effective education.
By guiding them through the process and leveraging appropriate product and finishes, our team ensured that the school could maximize the impact of their allocated funding.
This project serves as a testament to Custer’s commitment to understanding the unique needs of each client and providing tailored solutions that go beyond furniture. Muskegon Christian School’s newly transformed spaces are now equipped to nurture a positive and productive learning experience for students and staff alike.
Product Partners:
Steelcase, Smith System, Fleetwood, and Fomcore
Collaborative product selection with teachers
West Ottawa School North + South High School
Holland, MI
Custer partnered with West Ottawa Public Schools in the district’s initiative to revitalize learning spaces at North and South High Schools.
Completed in the summers of 2023 and 2022, respectively, this project involved a range of services provided by Custer, including furniture, installation, project management, and Custer-led design.
West Ottawa Public Schools faced the challenge of outdated furniture in two well-maintained High School buildings. Seeking a comprehensive solution, they collaborated with Custer to create a “kit of parts” for teaching staff.
Each teacher had three optional layouts, including lounge pieces and teacher setups.
Our team provided pilots, allowing teachers to vote on their favorite pieces. From these insights, three optional layouts were developed, offering flexibility and personalization for teachers at both locations.
The project incorporated modern and versatile solutions, including Steelcase Verb tables, Smith System Elemental Petal student tables, Smith System Flow Form lounge, and Steelcase Big Lounge.
Working with a great client across two expansive buildings, the result is a transformation of learning spaces that meet both schools’ personalized needs.
The collaborative approach, from piloting furniture options to developing customizable layouts, ensures a dynamic and engaging environment for both staff and students.
This project showcases the commitment of West Ottawa Public Schools to provide updated and adaptable learning spaces for their students.
It reflects the successful partnership between Custer and the school district, resulting in modernized educational environments that inspire and enhance the learning experience.
Product Partners: Steelcase and Smith System
Commonwealth Senior Living was looking to grow their footprint when they recently acquired three existing senior living facilities within the state of Michigan.
In 2023, Commonwealth completed the process of renovating these spaces to create more comfortable and welcoming living spaces for existing and future residents.
GMB Architecture + Engineering was contracted to design everything within the interior of these new spaces, including floor-to-ceiling architectural renovations. Undertaking a sizable renovation, Commonwealth was willing to make the investment in the space for the betterment of its residents.
When it came to selecting furniture, comfort and durability were priorities throughout this project. Along with providing great value, all products had to meet the safety standards for senior living and include all-encompassing warranties. Although the budget was conservative, it was no problem for the project designer and sales advisor to work within. We turned to our reliable, high-value partners like Steelcase, Duracare, and Great Openings.
Because Commonwealth is a senior living facility that needs to meet healthcare standards, durable and cleanable finishes were selected for furniture products throughout the space. Table bases and chair frames needed a steel structure. And desks and tables had to be of the highest levels of safety and durability.
Safety meets comfort in senior living facility
Project Partners:
GMB Architecture + Engineering
Product Partners:
Steelcase, Global, Duracare, and Great Openings
Custer sourced product for all resident and staff communal spaces, including waiting rooms, private offices, lounges, activity rooms, break rooms, salons, dining rooms, and meeting rooms.
The expertise and partnerships involved throughout this project resulted in functional, safe, and hospitable environments for residents to relax, dine, engage with each other, and feel at home for years to come.
In early 2022, Indiana-based Biggs Group decided it was time for a move. After 50 years in its Decatur headquarters, the company was relocated to Electric Works campus in Fort Wayne.
As the former home to General Electric, Electric Works was a vacant 39-acre, 18-building campus that was undergoing a complete rehabilitation. The updated space would feature housing, entertainment, shopping, dining, and offices, and Biggs Group wanted its hub to be at the center of this invigorating new environment.
They knew they wanted a sleek, modern look that intelligently maximized their 3300-square-foot space. But, they also needed furniture fast that fit within their budget.
Working with Design Collaborative, Custer set out to meet these needs, while also creating a space that encouraged collaboration, inspired innovation, and made employees excited to come to the office every day.
An open, airy environment was created with workstations placed close to the oversized windows, a variety of conference rooms and community spaces to accommodate group meetings and brainstorms, private offices for leadership, and a collaboration area in the bridge, a window-lined space with sweeping views of the campus.
The space was filled with height adjustable desks, inline power, HD storage for added privacy, file surround islands, phone rooms, and comfortable ancillary furniture for the collaboration spaces.
In early 2023, furniture installation was completed, and Biggs Group moved into their new headquarters.
Project Partners: Weigand Construction
Product Partners:
Steelcase, AMQ, Sit on It, and Enwork
Custer partnered with GMB Architecture + Engineering and Owen-Ames-Kimball to bring innovative furniture solutions to Hudsonville Public School’s brand-new 5th and 6th Grade Building, located in Hudsonville, Michigan.
Completed over the summer of 2023, this project represents a collaborative effort to create dynamic and student-centric learning environments.
The project involved Custer in furniture and installation, with design efforts led by GMB Architecture + Engineering.
Furniture selection included KI student seating, Fleetwood student tables, and a mix of solutions from Steelcase, Smith, Fomcore, and Coalesse for the common spaces, contributing to an environment that fosters collaboration and student engagement.
Accommodating student enrollment growth and being awarded a recently passed bond, Hudsonville Public Schools embarked on the construction of a new building.
Custer’s solution, implemented through a contract purchase with GMB Architecture + Engineering as the specifier, addressed the unique needs of the educational space.
Steelcase, Fleetwood, KI, Smith System, Coalesse, ERG, and Fomcore
Custer played a pivotal role in installing the majority of the classroom furniture and various ancillary common spaces, ensuring that each area was tailored to enhance the overall learning experience.
Noteworthy is the rarity of an entire school district having the opportunity to construct a new building from the ground up.
The Hudsonville Public Schools 5th and 6th Grade Building project stands as a testament to the commitment of the district to provide state-of-the-art facilities for its students.
The collaboration between Custer, GMB Architecture + Engineering, Owen-Ames-Kimball, and Hudsonville Public Schools has resulted in a cutting-edge educational facility that aligns with modern pedagogical practices.
This project serves as a showcase for the seamless integration of design, construction, and furniture to create an optimal learning environment for students.
"Their team worked hard, was efficient, and went the extra mile on every curve ball that came up, including all three sets of cubicles needing to be rebuilt. What a joy to work with such positive, fun, and hard-working people on a massive project like ours."
A.G. Buist Electric
We Create Spaces that Work for Communities that Work
At Custer, we genuinely believe in the power of community, and in 2023, our team continued its steadfast support for our neighbors and local organizations, focusing on making a positive impact in three key areas:
Education
• Contributing to special educational initiatives
• Enhancing K-12 STEM programs
• Supporting higher education
Economic Mobility
• Promoting equitable development
• Addressing homelessness
• Improving food access
Health Resources
• Investing in health research and wellness
• Contributing to rehabilitation efforts
• Advocating for mental health
Our commitment extended beyond words, as we aligned our support with company pillars through both monetary contributions and partnerships with Steelcase to provide essential resources. Furthermore, our in-kind donation services reflected our mission to transform communities through interior remodel and expansion projects for non-profit organizations such as Special Olympics of Michigan, Erin’s House for Grieving Children, and Mel Trotter Industries.
2023 also saw the return of the Custer Company Match, a companywide initiative that fundraised and collected Christmas gifts for the family of a Parkview Health employee battling cancer.
Reflecting on a year of heartfelt community engagement, we express gratitude and admiration for our team's enduring goodwill and dedication. As we move into 2024, we look forward to continuing this journey together, striving to make an even greater impact in the communities we live in.
Inclusive design in partnership with Steelcase
“This will be a place that sets a new standard not just for Special Olympics or even the special needs community. The standard set here is for everyone, everywhere.”
Steelcase, Coalesse, Orangebox, FLOR, and Moooi Carpets
When Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) purchased the former South Christian High School building in 2019, their dream was to develop the largest Special Olympics training and sports center in the world. And they did that.
The project would include two key phases. First, SOMI wanted to renovate the 127,000-square-foot facility and create a nonprofit hub. In addition to SOMI’s headquarters, they allocated space for several other local organizations, including Autism Support of Kent County and the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan, and many more.
Phase two will focus on transforming the 17-acre campus into a world-class sport complex for Special Olympics programming for Special Olympics athletes.
Custer worked with Mathison-Mathison Architects, Erhardt Construction, and product partners Steelcase, Coalesse, and Orangebox to turn the outdated space into a bright, modern workplace that supports the various organizations and facilitates synergy.
The goal for the space focused on human-centered and inclusive design principals to understand and accommodate the diverse needs each organization required.
Large, flexible collaboration rooms filled with flexible conference tables provide ample space for group discussions and brainstorms.
Comfortable lounge seating turns work tent spaces into places for privacy and quiet reflection. Supportive task chairs and flip-top tables give employees spaces for heads-down focus. Finally, low-profile rugs create a warm, inviting ambiance throughout the building.
The Unified Sports and Inclusion Center was completed in October 2023.
Frederik Meijer Gardens | Grand Rapids, MI
Transforming Frederik Meijer Gardens
Project Partners: PURE Architects | Owen-Ames-Kimball
Product Partners:
Steelcase, Coalesse, Turnstone, AMQ, Bolia, Viccarbe, and Blu Dot
In partnership with Owen-Ames-Kimball and PURE Architects, Custer undertook a transformative project for Frederik Meijer Gardens, a renowned cultural institution and sculpture park located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The focus of the project were spaces within the facility that aren’t typically seen by the community–while still maintaining the inspirational and artistic design that is witnessed by visitors throughout the remaining facility grounds.
The goal of this project was to revitalize and optimize their workspace, addressing significant challenges resulting from rapid growth and outdated office furniture.
The project unfolded in phases, starting with the Mezzanine installation in late June of 2023, followed by the Maintenance Building in early September, and concluding with the Lower Level and Devos Wing in November.
Frederik Meijer Gardens had outgrown its existing office space, requiring a creative solution to accommodate growth. The space lacked essential amenities like conference rooms, breakrooms, and options for differing postures throughout. The challenge was to scale down workstation sizes to allow for better use of the overall floor plan and square footage, create efficient team adjacencies, and enhance overall ergonomics.
By introducing height adjustable desks and optimizing storage solutions, the function of the space was enhanced to its full potential. Conference rooms were added to foster collaboration, and a much-needed breakroom was integrated to encourage employees to step away from their desks. The Mezzanine, strategically positioned above the Welcome Center, became a new hub for administrative functions.
To ensure minimal disruption to ongoing operations, the installation was executed in phases. The design and programming were meticulously handled in collaboration with project partners, PURE Architects and Owen-Ames-Kimball, bringing a comprehensive and cohesive vision to fruition.
The customer’s need for efficient space utilization was achieved through maximizing floor plans within a compact footprint–contributing to the successful transformation of the Frederik Meijer Gardens workspace.
The meticulous installation of Frederik Meijer Gardens’ offices showcases the successful integration of innovative design, quality furniture solutions, and strategic planning to create a revitalized and functional workspace.
This project not only addressed immediate needs but also positioned the institution for sustained growth and productivity in the future.
Corewell Health | Lakeview, MI
Project Partners:
Granger Construction | Smith Group
Product Partners:
Steelcase, Stance, and StudioCraft
Residents in Lakeview, Michigan, a rural community forty miles northeast of Grand Rapids in Montcalm County, were seeking a more convenient location for outpatient medical services.
To fill this need, Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health) embarked on a new build project: a 15,000+ square foot, state-of-the-art facility where patients can receive medical care for a variety of conditions, including outpatient rehabilitation, a lab and walk-in clinic, and specialty care services.
Custer worked closely with Detroit-based architecture firm, Smith Group, through a year-long process of discovery concerning the new facility, from process and flow to how the patients and staff would experience the space. This partnership resulted in a coordinated effort to ensure a seamless installation and beautiful finished space for the customer and its patients.
As a multi-use outpatient facility featuring intimate spaces for talk therapy and blood draws, acoustic privacy panels and height-adjustable desks were utilized to create separation.
Custer was also asked to adhere to Corewell Health’s standard of uniformity across individual spaces. Meaning that the same desks, same chairs, same tables, etc., were used throughout the entirety of the space. Because of this, the outpatient center’s layout can scale up to twelve stories if needed in the future.
In addition to growing close relationships with external partners during this project, Custer has over forty years of experience working with Corewell Health as a client.
Installation of the furniture was complete by May 2023 and the building opened to the public in June 2023.
Product partners for this project were Steelcase, Stance, and StudioCraft, who supplied furniture and materials for waiting rooms, teamwork area, registration desks, meeting rooms, exam rooms, private offices, and break rooms that could withstand rigorous sanitization multiple times a day.
Custer continued its partnership with West Ottawa Public Schools as the district continues its larger efforts to update more than a half a dozen education facilities. This feature highlights the continuation of our work at this school throughout the facility’s classrooms.
In collaboration with GMB Architecture + Engineering, Custer contributed to the renovation of West Ottawa Harbor Lights Middle School, further elevating the learning spaces. Our team was involved with furniture and installation, and design efforts were led by GMB Architecture + Engineering.
The challenge for West Ottawa Public Schools was the need to fully renovate an outdated building, updating and purchasing new furniture throughout. Custer’s solution involved collaborating with the project architect to develop a comprehensive list of furniture products that align with the school’s vision for modern and effective learning environments.
Custer’s impact extended across various spaces, including classrooms and Extended Learning Areas. The cafeteria, which was already completed in the first phase of the project in 2022, contributed to the overall revitalization of the school.
The result is a beautiful space that blends functionality with aesthetics, creating an environment conducive to learning and collaboration.
The carefully selected furniture solutions include Steelcase Verb Student tables, Node Student Chairs, Smith System Flavors Noodle Chairs, Fleetwood student tables, Smith System Flowform Bean Benches, AmTab tables, Global Popcorn Stack Chairs, and Steelcase Regard Booths. Each product was chosen to contribute to the overall design and functionality of the space.
This collaborative effort between West Ottawa Public Schools, GMB Architecture + Engineering, and Custer showcases the power of thoughtful design and quality furniture in creating inspiring learning environments. The completion of this phase is a milestone in the ongoing commitment to providing West Ottawa students with modern, dynamic, and beautiful spaces for their educational journey.
Continuation of ongoing district upgrades
West Ottawa Harbor Lights Middle School Holland, MI
Project Partners: GMB Architecture + Engineering
Product Partners: Steelcase, Smith System, and Fleetwood
Elevating the patient experience
Custer collaborated with The Cancer and Hematology Centers to craft a transformative space at their new facility in Big Rapids, Michigan.
With a focus on enhancing patient experience and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere, this project represents a significant departure from traditional healthcare settings.
Completed in June 2023, the project was brought to life with the expertise of The Christman Company in construction. Custer’s involvement included furniture, installation, and a design approach centered around patient-centric spaces.
CS Erickson contributed to the project with specialized audiovisual solutions, including TVs in the infusion bays, while also addressing electrical and lighting needs.
The Cancer and Hematology Centers sought to create a welcoming environment that would attract new patients while providing a comfortable, non-institutional feel.
Custer’s solution involved meticulous planning, particularly for key patient areas.
Incorporating feedback from patients and healthcare professionals, the design prioritized warmth and comfort without compromising functionality for essential cancer treatments.
The Cancer and Hematology Centers | Big Rapids, MI
Project Partners:
CS Erickson | The Christman Company
Product Partners:
Steelcase and AMQ
Our team designed and installed various spaces throughout the facility, including waiting areas, infusion bays, exam rooms, and staff areas, ensuring each space was optimized for both comfort and efficiency.
This project marks a significant shift in direction for The Cancer and Hematology Centers as they aim to elevate their brand and redefine the patient experience. While maintaining a longstanding partnership with Custer, this new facility represents a bold step towards setting a new standard in healthcare environments.
The innovative design choices, such as cozy waiting rooms and loveseats in exam rooms, reflect our commitment to creating spaces that prioritize patient comfort and well-being.
Custer’s collaboration with The Cancer and Hematology Centers exemplifies a shared vision for creating healthcare spaces that transcend the conventional, offering patients a welcoming and supportive environment during their treatment journey.
Kent County Road Commission | Grand Rapids, MI
A pending move from downtown Grand Rapids to a new central complex in Comstock Park was the perfect opportunity for Kent County Road Commission to re-envision their workspace.
Erik Easterly, Project Manager for the New Central Complex Development, was eager to work with Custer and Steelcase to design and furnish their new building in a way that made sense for the future of the municipal agency.
Surrounded by a mix of natural scenery and corporate offices on 4 Mile Road, the new office space features natural light throughout, with floor-to-ceiling windows surrounding the perimeter.
An open floor plan was requested for the interior of the building to utilize this prized attribute, as well as plenty of ancillary spaces, both traditional and lounge inspired.
But, with an open office floor plan comes the challenge of carving out pockets for focused, independent work time. Height-adjustable desks were installed within private offices and cubicle-like spaces, as well as creating ancillary spaces via privacy walls to get away when quiet time was needed.
In the conference rooms, custom flipping and nesting board room tables from Enwork were intentionally designed into the space to give the option of easily rearranging the room. CS Erickson provided room scheduler technology to enhance user connectivity and seamless collaboration.
"Being on the Road Commission, office furniture was far outside of our area of expertise, but Custer made the process easy with tours, 3D modeling, and interior design vision and expertise. I would recommend Custer's services to anyone seeking top-ofthe-line office furniture."
E.E.
PE, Project Manager, New Central Complex Development
Special thanks to our photography partner, Carbon Stories, for capturing the project images showcased throughout this magazine.
