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# Wellness-Inspired QSR HQs
Mcdonald's HQ in Chicago Takes Cues from Rising Consumer Consciousness

By Kalin Ned | Published 2019-03-21 | Art & Design
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mcdonalds-hq
References: [fastcompany](https://www.fastcompany.com/90322078/mcdonalds-new-hq-makes-it-look-more-like-a-wellness-startup?partner=feedburner&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=feedburner+fastcompany&utm_content=feedburner) & [mcdonalds](https://www.mcdonalds.com/ca/en-ca.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI55nH_quT4QIV0LfACh1uAQMkEAAYASAAEgKcL_D_BwE)

The [McDonald's HQ](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mcdonalds-in-forth-worth) occupies nine stories and houses a total of 2,000 employees. Open to the public, the space has been designed by [Studio O+A](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/omg-burger-i) and [IA Interior Architects](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/evite) and it hosts some educational and entertainment-focused add-ons like the "Hamburger University management training center" and the global McDonald's restaurant.

What is noteworthy in the design of the Chicago-based McDonald's HQ is that it revolves around the concept of wellness which is perhaps a rebranding strategy to reflect the growing consumer consciousness surrounding health-focused products and services — from a living green wall to a "tightly pruned forest canopy." Naturally, the elements and materials that Studio O+A and IA Interior Architects chose also pertain heavily to the business of the fast food establishment.

Photo Credits: Garrett Rowland/McDonald's

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 5.4/10
- Popularity: 75% | Activity: 78% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design)

## Key Themes

### Why This Trend Is Growing

- **Wellness-focused HQ Design:** Wellness-focused headquarters design trend in QSR industry to reflect growing consumer consciousness.
- **Educational and Entertainment Add-ons:** Increased emphasis on educational and entertainment add-ons for QSR HQs to enhance brand image.
- **Integration of Natural Elements:** Integration of natural elements trend in QSR HQ design as a way to appeal to eco-conscious consumers and showcase brand sustainability.

### Industries Being Reshaped

- **Quick Service Restaurants (QSR):** Fast food industry leaders are implementing wellness-focused design elements to remain competitive in the growing market for health-focused products and services.
- **Architecture and Interior Design:** Architecture and interior design firms specializing in commercial spaces are tapping into the demand for wellness-focused designs in the QSR industry.
- **Corporate Training and Education:** Companies and individuals providing corporate training and education services can capitalize on the increasing popularity of educational add-ons in QSR HQ design.

## Related on Trend Hunter

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