DTLS was asked by Nestle-Purina to design and enhance the entrance plaza at the Nestle-Purina Headquarters Towers off Chouteau Avenue. The design team worked very closely with the client to come up with solutions that would solve the needs of the campus entrance, like security improvements, future projects, and sense of arrival.

The team entered into phases of iterative designs that solved the issues of the entrance, and were able to agree on an economical solution that considered future additions to the campus. DTLS was also able to make finer stroke additions to the project, like honoring the architecture with the pavers, the addition of grasses and forbes that are enjoyable to the pet associates on the Nestle-Purina campus, and incorporating universal design principles into the plaza.

The pavers utilized in this project were fundamental to the plaza’s design and user experience. The design team collaborated with the material sourcing company to address the critical issue of replacing damaged pavers and to develop a modular design that anticipates future expansions of the entrance plaza. Furthermore, the design team engaged with other specialists to integrate the pavers into the central water feature of the entrance plaza.

This at-grade water feature consumes considerably less water than its predecessor and is accessible to individuals of all ages and abilities. As further enhancements are made to this entrance plaza, the team anticipates continued collaboration with specialists and clients to resolve challenges and cultivate an inclusive and engaging environment for all users, including pets.