A More Functional Way to Work: Topcon Renovation
When Topcon Agriculture Americas in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin, partnered with CJ & Associates, they were looking to update a workspace that no longer matched the way their team worked. The space had served them well for many years, but it needed more light, better storage and organization solutions, and a better reflection of their brand. Their goal was to create an environment that felt brighter, more open, and more comfortable for the people who use it every day.
A Multi-Phased Approach
The partnership between Topcon and CJ & Associates began back in 2018 with the remodel of the atrium, reception, and café. After that first phase was completed, the relationship continued into a much larger update that included a four-phase remodel of the office spaces on both floors. To keep the design consistent over several years, CJ & Associates worked with aligned manufacturer partners to create furniture and finish solutions that could be matched on future orders and allowed the same look to carry through each phase of the office remodel. This allowed the same look to carry through each phase of the office remodel.
The project also incorporated furnishings and products from Teknion, Global, Safco, 9 to 5 Seating, Cramer ESD Seating, ESI/Fellowes, Connectrac, Milliken, and Michael David Cabinetry. Throughout each phase, the CJ & Associates Project Management team coordinated orders, schedules, and installation so the work stayed on track, even as leadership and priorities shifted within the Topcon organization over time.
Before the renovation: original offices, storage areas, and workspaces prior to updates that improved light, layout, and day-to-day function.
New Light to the Space
One of the biggest goals was to brighten the space. The existing drywall office fronts blocked light and created interior areas that felt dark. Replacing those walls with Teknion TekVue glass fronts allowed sunlight to move freely throughout the building. That single change made the space feel instantly more open and welcoming.
Renovating in Real Time
The entire two-floor office renovation took place while the building remained fully occupied, which meant the team was working, meeting, and supporting customers throughout the construction process. To keep their day-to-day operations running smoothly, CJ & Associates created a short-term workspace so employees could continue working while their primary area is being renovated. This area was used during all four phases of the project.
Making the Most of the Space
Early in the project, the team took note of the built-in planters that had been part of the interior for many years. They were filled with soil, stone, and live plants, so removing them required careful excavation inside the building. Once the planters were cleared, the CJ & Associates design team saw a new opportunity. Instead of simply filling in the area, they reimagined the space as new collaboration zones. It is a strong example of how CJ & Associates can look at existing elements within a workspace and find creative ways to repurpose them in a thoughtful new design layout.
A Familiar Space for Our Designer
An interesting part of this project was the involvement of CJ & Associates designer Vicky, who had worked in this building earlier in her career. Returning to redesign a space she once knew so well added a personal layer to the project and provided helpful insight throughout the interior design process.
A Workplace Meant for People
The result is a workplace that not only looks refreshed but also functions in a way that truly supports the people who use it. Natural light moves through the offices. Workspaces are organized, comfortable, and better suited to daily tasks. New collaboration areas give teams a place to connect, and the overall design reflects the Topcon identity in a clear and cohesive way.
This project reflects what CJ & Associates does best. We listen to our clients, learn how their teams work, and design with innovation and purpose. It also demonstrates the strength of a long-term partnership and the value of thoughtful workplace design that grows with a company over time.
