Transforming the Front Lobby into a Branded Visitor Experience
Challenge
As part of our rebrand from Diversified Plastics to Aprios Custom MFG, our physical space needed to reflect the same modern, professional identity we were promoting online. The reception area was outdated and lacked any storytelling, branding, or structure—leaving customers with a poor first impression.
Approach
I led the redesign of our Minneapolis reception area, turning it into a branded lobby experience that reflected our 48-year history, showcased customer successes, and welcomed visitors with polish and personality—all while staying within a $3,000 budget.
Key elements of the redesign included:
iPad check-in system powered by The Receptionist, aligned with our Vista location for process consistency
A digital welcome display, mounted with help from our facilities team, which greets customers with their company logo
A curated product showcase of approved customer parts and company awards, installed on custom shelving
Historical marketing artifacts, including vintage sell sheets, press clippings, and early photography from our founding years, professionally framed and displayed
New furniture, curated in a mood board and shown to the team for feedback to ensure both comfort and cohesion with our new brand aesthetic
Collaboration & Execution
Worked with Operations to validate part display approvals
Facilities and IT handled TV and iPad implementation
Personally assembled and staged the entire space—from mounting the wall art to installing the part displays and setting up furniture
Results
Immediate positive feedback from both internal team members and visiting customers
Guests commented on how welcoming, clean, and modern the space felt
Reinforced brand consistency across digital and physical touchpoints
Created a professional first impression that supports both sales and recruiting
Key Insight
Your brand doesn’t stop at the website. By transforming our reception area into a thoughtful, story-driven space, I helped turn everyday visits into brand moments—and made our values visible the moment someone walks through the door.
