AN INTERVIEW WITH VELASPAN PARTNER KERRY KULP

WHY DID VELASPAN CHOOSE DOWNTOWN ALLENTOWN FOR ITS NEW HEADQUARTERS?

In 2014, Velaspan was quickly outgrowing our first office and needed a space that would support both our growth and our corporate culture. The revitalization of downtown Allentown was in the early stages, but we immediately knew it was something we wanted to be a part of. The arena, restaurants, and culture of downtown Allentown all combined to make it an attractive home for Velaspan.

HOW HAS THE ENVIRONMENT HELPED YOUR COMPANY GROW?

Our corporate culture is something we take great pride in, and our office location and environment play a significant role in establishing and maintaining that culture. Being in the heart of downtown Allentown near sports, entertainment, and the arts has enhanced our corporate identity as an energetic, forward-thinking company that values its employees. That has gone a long way in helping us attract talented team members in a very competitive job market.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HAVING CLASS A OFFICESPACE?

Like many tech companies, Velaspan was established out of the basements and garages of its founders. It quickly became apparent that an office was needed to foster our culture of open communication and collaboration among team members. As we grew, we also needed a space that reflected the high-end work we do for our clients. And we found that at City Center. Having a beautifully designed, staffed lobby instills a great first impression that is further reinforced when our guests reach our office space with its glass walls, lounge, and creative, employee-first features.

WHAT ADVANTAGES HAVE YOU RECEIVED AS A TENANT OF CITY CENTER?

With City Center, we feel like we are more than just a tenant. We can participate in programs and events where our perspective can help shape the short- and long-term revitalization efforts downtown.

HOW HAS YOUR OFFICE SPACE INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY?

When we began working with the City Center design team, we stressed that we didn't want a typical suite with private offices along the windows and open, collaborative spaces in an interior, windowless space. Instead, we opted to put the lounges and team spaces along the windows while bringing the offices and conference rooms toward the building core. That layout coupled with all-glass office walls, operable, glass-paneled garage doors on our conference rooms, and unique, inspirational art all combine to promote productivity and collaboration.

WHAT DO YOUR EMPLOYEES LOVE ABOUT BEING IN DOWNTOWN ALLENTOWN?

That's easy. The walkability to all the great restaurants and the proximity to the hockey arena! Having the Arts Park literally in our backyard doesn't hurt either.

our publisher, Pam Deller, is looking forward to this month!

pdeller@lehighvalleystyle.com