L&L Products

L&L Products—a global leader in chemical engineering and manufacturing—engaged THA Architects Engineers to reimagine one of their aging cafeteria spaces at their Romeo, Michigan headquarters. With a legacy dating back to 1958 and a reputation for innovation across automotive, aerospace, industrial, and sporting goods sectors, L&L is equally known for its strong employee-focused culture. The existing cafeteria, last renovated in 2000, no longer supported the evolving needs of its workforce or reflected the company’s brand identity.

Design Challenge

The original space featured a full-service kitchen and dining area, but over time, employee habits shifted toward self-serve meal solutions. The kitchen became underutilized, and the finishes—worn from decades of use—evoked a dated, buffet-style aesthetic that clashed with L&L’s modern image. The challenge was to transform this underperforming space into a vibrant, multifunctional environment that aligned with the company’s values and operational goals.

Design Strategy

THA collaborated closely with L&L’s leadership to develop a new space program that prioritized flexibility, functionality, and brand alignment. The reimagined layout included:

• A refreshed dining area with varied seating options
• A marketplace for food distribution with self-serve coolers and racks
• A coffee bar near the main entry
• A staging/storage area for third-party food vendors
• General storage space
• A new meeting room for training and manufacturing team sessions

The design team focused on creating an open, inviting atmosphere that harmonized with the facility’s contemporary aesthetic. By removing the existing acoustic tile ceiling and exposing the tall roof structure, the space gained volume and light. Mechanical and fire suppression systems were reworked, and the entire ceiling area was cleaned and painted to enhance openness.

Architectural Features

• Marketplace Integration: A lowered ceiling and custom cabinetry defined the marketplace without isolating it from the main dining area.
• Visual Connectivity: Sightlines were opened to adjacent spaces, creating a sense of flow and transparency.
• Flexible Seating: From sunlit benches near large exterior windows to bar-top and high-top tables, seating was designed to accommodate a range of uses and preferences.
• Acoustic Design: Hanging and wall-mounted geometric panels—echoing L&L’s logo and color palette—provided sound control while subtly reinforcing brand identity.
• Material Palette: Warm wood textures and durable solid surface counters were used throughout, with integrated planters bringing natural greenery indoors for year-round comfort.

Meeting Room Addition

Replacing the former walk-in cooler/freezer, the new meeting room was designed as a functional, blue-collar workspace directly off the shop floor. While utilitarian in nature, the space included wood accents and finishes that matched the café, maintaining visual cohesion. It features ample seating, whiteboards, and a large monitor with wireless connectivity for presentations and training.

Outcome

Construction wrapped up after six months, with the final cost coming in significantly under budget. The completed space exceeded expectations, delivering:

• A modern, open environment that supports employee wellness and collaboration
• A more functional layout that eliminated underutilized areas
• A design that reflects L&L’s global identity and commitment to innovation

As the project evolved, the space earned a new name among L&L staff: “The Café”—a testament to its elevated design and renewed purpose. THA Architects Engineers is proud to have partnered with L&L Products to deliver a space that truly serves the people who make the company thrive.