The Jacobson & Schmitt Advisors company was created as a wealth management platform, dedicated to helping people optimize their money in a more meaningful way. The firm believes that money can and should be a catalyst for good – putting people over profits.



They choose Kimball International’s National brand to transform the office area into a beautiful and functional space that was more comfortable and inviting for both clients and employees, while keeping social and environmental well-being in mind. They felt their existing furniture was out of scale for the space and not used as intended. It was too small and did not provide the appropriate hierarchy throughout the space. They worked with KMB Design and Forward Space to update and redesign their 3,750 square foot office space.

Mariana Hernandez, interior designer at Forward Space, described one of the unique challenges facing the design; finding furniture that would be accessible for older clientele. The furniture had to be used by a diverse set of ages and it needed to be supportive. Jacobson & Schmitt Advisors’ also desired a residential aesthetic, so they utilized Lochlyn, Hobsen, and Collette to achieve that style for collaboration areas, client facing conference rooms, and the lobby. Along with meeting the intended aesthetic and purpose, National was chosen for quality and met the project schedule with lead times. The ability to visualize the product in the space utilizing Configura Extension Technology (CET) was considered a differentiator for this project. 

“We loved the residential feel of the furniture. It is hard to find a good-looking sofa that checks all the boxes! The Lochlyn space divider provides the perfect buffer from the private offices right behind it, while also adding to the residential feel of the open office by allowing the client to accessorize it with things that have meaning for them, including pictures, books, and plants.” 


KELLY BRAINERD, FOUNDER AND DESIGN DIRECTOR AT KMB DESIGN

“We loved the residential feel of the furniture,” said Kelly Brainerd, Founder and Design Director of KMB Design. “The blended fabric, leather, and wood of Hobsen is sublime. The Collette sofa was a firm enough sit without being too commercial and uncomfortable, while still allowing users to sit upright and work. It is hard to find a good-looking sofa that checks all those boxes! The Lochlyn space divider provides the perfect buffer from the private offices right behind it, while also adding to the residential feel of the open office by allowing the client to accessorize it with things that have meaning for them, including pictures, books, and plants.”



The updated furniture allowed them to convert an open office space from a copy area to a place where the entire team could gather to work, relax, and hold meetings. Lounge furniture now anchors the space and guest chairs allow for mobility and flexibility. A space divider solution also adds height and defines the open office footprint. Not only is this an amazing transformation of a space, but one with impact. The outcome is a truly beautiful and functional space.