NESTLE ENDEAVOR 1918

Marysville, Ohio

CHALLENGE

Nestlé envisioned creating an immersive sensory destination that celebrates food discovery, honors local craftsmanship, inspires innovation, and transforms the visitor and employee experience at their Marysville Research & Development campus.

SOLUTION

WSA partnered with Nestlé to transform the Discovery Center (Endeavor 1918) into a multisensory journey that celebrates the intimate relationship between people and food. The design concept draws inspiration from the places where meaningful food experiences occur – home kitchens, cafés, and gathering spaces – creating an environment that feels both aspirational and authentically welcoming.

A dramatic tasting bar anchors the center of the space, featuring industrial lighting that connects visually to the main lobby. Surrounding this focal point, the design transitions outward to quieter areas with varied work settings. Practical elements like glass sliding panels and mobile furniture allow the space to adapt easily between different functions – from formal tastings to impromptu team meetings. Sliding glass panels and adaptable furniture create an environment that transforms effortlessly throughout the day, supporting both scheduled events and spontaneous collaboration.

Materials were selected not just for their aesthetic appeal but for their ability to evoke emotional responses – warm woods that age beautifully, textiles that invite touch, and strategically placed plantings that bring life and texture to the space. Each design element was chosen to create a multisensory experience that celebrates both Nestlé's heritage and the richness of the surrounding Ohio landscape.

IMPACT

The Discovery Center has become a transformative space that elevates the everyday experience of employees while creating memorable impressions for visitors. Product development teams report increased creativity and cross-pollination of ideas, directly attributing innovations to the collaborative environment. The space has become a powerful recruitment tool, helping Nestlé attract top culinary and research talent by showcasing their commitment to both innovation and employee wellbeing.