Welcome to The Hub @ Raleigh
Feb 25, 2022
Undeniably, the COVID-19 pandemic has permanently altered the landscape of how many organizations conduct business – and Eaton is no exception.
Back on March 16, 2020, when Eaton employees were instructed to pack up offices and begin working from home, we had no idea that it would be nearly two years before being allowed back within the walls of the Forum building– or that upon our return, many of those walls would be missing!
From Covid to collaboration
In an effort to provide a much-enhanced environment for employees, Eaton took the opportunity to completely remodel the Raleigh, N.C., headquarters over the long intermission. The resulting revamp was so extensive that it even warranted a new name for the building: The Hub @ Raleigh.
Gone are individual, assigned offices that previously served as little more than status symbols. Instead, each floor features unique and festive collaboration spaces that provide employees the opportunity to catch up, brainstorm and engage on any topic. From comfy couches and modern booths to high-rise tables, the atmosphere accentuates the company’s desire for employees to have an enjoyable work experience.
Enhanced flexibility and access
The new digs also underscore Eaton’s commitment to fostering a successful work/life balance. To that end, there is no mandate to return to the office; instead, everyone has the flexibility to choose when they work from home and in the office. Not only can employees book a workstation for the day through a convenient phone app, but a laptop is the only device they need to tote from home, since all stations are prewired with an input power cable and equipped with a mouse, keyboard and monitors with webcams. Those who prefer to work uninterrupted have the option of reserving an office space.
Also absent are formal conference rooms that once featured tedious projectors and poor audio. In their place, within each of the building’s new meeting rooms are professional web conferencing devices that track the voice of participants so the speaker remains in focus during hybrid meetings. Meanwhile, the main conference room has been transformed into an agora-style gathering space that can be used for large scale meetings or as a café. From a relaxing atrium space to wellness rooms to Zen booths featuring private phones and video conferencing capabilities, the new building truly provides a desirable space for every employee.
A space with real personality
Recognizing that the office environment shouldn’t be all work and no play, Eaton complemented the impressive technology deployment and accommodating workspaces with some pure fun. Playing off of the company’s light-hearted communication style, each floor in the building is sponsored by one of our famous desk toys, including Devil Duck’s first-floor playground and a quiet, more focused fourth-floor supported by Zen Frog. As visitors exit the elevator, they are welcomed by giant wall paintings of each toy, complete with a humorous message. And don’t expect to gather in Conference Room A; meeting room names align with their respective desk toy. With Monkey sponsoring the fifth floor, for example, conference rooms are designated with monikers including King Kong, Curious George and Barrel of Monkeys.
The building’s new name, careful attention to detail and splashes of playfulness were all part of Eaton’s effort to create a magnet that not only showcases the technology company we are, but will attract new talent in a competitive market. Based on the initial feedback from employees, it looks like we have succeeded – and we can’t wait to hear what our partners, customers and vendors will have to say about their experience. Devil Duck has already given The Hub two (webbed) thumbs up!