When a mission-driven organization like African Career Education & Resource Inc. (ACER) transforms its headquarters, the space becomes more than a workplace. It becomes a symbol of purpose. With LSE Architects Inc. and Greiner Construction leading the charge, the Brooklyn Park renovation focused on cultural relevance, inclusive design, and spatial intelligence.
Enter CSI Creative, delivering a bold biophilic gesture through acoustic greenery that required zero maintenance and delivered maximum impact. Our architectural-grade artificial greenery became the soul of the space—both visually and functionally, while also enhancing acoustics in a sustainable, design-forward way.
Cobble, Earth Collection, CSI Creative
Purpose-Driven Design Rooted in Community Insight
ACER’s mission is to elevate the voices of African and minority communities, supporting them through advocacy, economic development, and social justice initiatives. For Elizabeth Wright, Operations Manager at ACER, the environment needed to align with those values.
“We focus heavily on economic and career development (ECD) and social justice. We wanted the space to mirror that. It had to feel modern, creative, and community-centered.” – Elizabeth Wright, Operations Manager at ACER
This wasn’t just a design project—it was a community collaboration. ACER took direct feedback from its constituents, and the results are evident. The environment now radiates with intention, warmth, and a clear cultural identity.
“We got so much positive feedback about the modern, green, cute vibe,” Wright adds. “And practically speaking, we don’t have the bandwidth for maintenance, so acoustic greenery was the ideal solution.”
Biophilia at the Heart of the Floorplan
Placed at the literal and symbolic core of the space, CSI Creative’s acoustic greenery installation does more than beautify. It acts as a spatial nexus, connecting co-working zones with staff offices and bridging the communal with the professional.
“It’s the staple piece in the office,” says Wright. “It’s in the center—between our working and public zones—so it naturally became a space for people to congregate.”
This central location transforms the acoustic greenery into an experiential element, one that fosters interaction, elevates mood, and brings balance to the flow of movement and work across the office.
Artificial Hosta Plant, Plantscape Commercial Silk
Behavioral Shifts Through Environmental Design
The impact wasn’t just visual. It was behavioral. During the renovation, staff had the option to work remotely. The surprise? They couldn’t wait to return.
“While the new office was being set up, people were working from home. But instead of wanting to stay remote, everyone was urging to get back in!” Wright explains.
Employees reported feeling more comfortable, focused, and inspired. CSI’s acoustic greenery contributed to a softer acoustic environment, reinforcing privacy and focus while inviting calm and connection.
“I can’t even hear what’s going on in the public conference area at the front,” Wright notes.
Realism Meets Practicality
The installation was so lifelike, it sparked curiosity from the start.
“At our open house and even in day-to-day conversations, people constantly ask if it’s real,” Wright says. “And that’s when you know it’s working.”
Our acoustic greenery materials mimic the tone, texture, and rhythm of living plants, with the added benefit of zero upkeep. It’s a win for fast-paced, resource-conscious organizations like ACER.
Scalable Impact, Cultural Relevance
What started as a visual focal point is now sparking broader conversations about spatial design across ACER’s work environments.
“We absolutely want more,” Wright shares. “We’re already talking about where else we can add greenery.”
This project demonstrates that artificial biophilic design through acoustic greenery can seamlessly integrate with the pace and demands of real-world workspaces, while supporting culture and function.
Whether you’re designing a nonprofit headquarters, a civic space, or a modern workplace, CSI Creative provides low-maintenance, high-impact acoustic greenery solutions that enhance aesthetics, support spatial function, and reflect your design intent.
To see how our acoustic greenery systems can integrate into your next project, explore our Acoustic Greenery Collection for inspiration. If you’re ready to take the next step, you can connect directly with a sales representative or request a sample to experience the material firsthand.
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