Panera Bread Boston Headquarters

With ongoing changes to the workplace, Panera knew it was time to build new office headquarters that provided more flexibility, transparency, and creativity.



Panera partnered with experience agency ChangeUp to design their new Boston headquarters to better reflect their brand and new workforce behaviors. Taking hybrid workflow largely into account, Panera set out to build an uplifting and adaptable work environment that allows employees to better connect with one another and the brand.



Starting at the entry, employees and guests are immediately immersed in the Panera brand. The Brand Immersion Hall provides visitors and employees with a striking welcome, showcasing important moments in Panera’s rich history of innovation. Additionally, a custom light fixture activates lights overhead as guests step into the hallway, shining a path ahead of each person’s steps. This “lighted path” is a reminder of how each employee is an important part of the future of Panera.



As a brand that stands for warmth and connection, it was important for the office to embody those same principles. Creating thoughtful moments for collaboration, and integrating state-of-the-art technology, give employees the space and tools they need to evolve as an organization. The employee lounge is the central connection point in the office. It’s where employees come together for impromptu and companywide meetings, or simply to have lunch. Anchoring the lounge is a large social media wall that broadcasts customers’ interactions with the brand and restaurants. The live stream is an important reminder, centering employees back to the customer.



The “Chef’s Kitchen” was established as the backdrop to the open office, setting the tone for innovation. Only glazing separates employees from the energy and sensorial buzz of the kitchen. Employees can see what’s cooking in the kitchen, and an adjacent tasting bar allows them to give feedback on potential new menu items. The space doubles as a working kitchen as well as a place to film new menu introductions at the chef’s table. The adjacent open office mimics that innovational spirit, with a mixture of open and semi-private meeting spaces, showcasing Panera’s culture of collaboration.