A Catalyst for Change
When the pandemic hit, demand at Meals on Wheels San Diego County surged by 50% almost overnight—placing new pressures on an already outdated and fragmented space. With seniors isolated at home and unable to access groceries or prepared meals safely, the need for reliable food delivery soared. Staff were stretched thin, collaboration was difficult, and the headquarters no longer supported the scale or ambition of their work.
“It felt like innovation couldn’t thrive there,” said CEO Brent Wakefield, who stepped into the role in 2020 at the height of the pandemic.
Rather than settle for short-term fixes, the organization saw the moment as an opportunity for transformation. Backed by a clear vision and catalytic funding—including a $4 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott—they partnered with ID Studios, Parron Hall, and Allsteel to create a space that matches the scale, energy, and heart of their mission.
Designing from the Heart
From the start, the project carried emotional weight. “Members of our team had volunteered with Meals on Wheels before, so we felt a real connection to their purpose,” said Rich Guerena, Principal at ID Studios. “We weren’t just designing a workplace, we were creating a place that supports people who give so much to their community.”
Design conversations were anchored in the idea of the heart, symbolizing both the organization’s purpose and the unifying role this place plays. “This place is the heart of their operations,” said Andrew Fordham, Technical Design Director at ID Studios. “It needed to serve every part of the organization and every person who walks through it.”
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Bringing Vision to Life Through Thoughtful Design
With that vision, the team prioritized thoughtful design solutions rooted in well-being and clarity. Natural light was brought into every workspace. Organic shapes were used to create a sense of movement and calm. Materials were selected with both durability and comfort in mind. A subtle olive tree motif, inspired by one of Wakefield’s early ideas, helped shape the space with quiet references to growth and resilience.
A Full-Scope Renovation with Community in Mind
The transformation went far beyond the interior. The entire building was stripped to its shell, with major updates to the structure, systems, and exterior. The team added EV charging stations, improved accessibility, and introduced new landscaping. The new entrance offers a clear, welcoming arrival experience, while intuitive wayfinding enhances navigation throughout the building.
Even the donor wall reflects this deeper intentionality. Designed for future flexibility, it honors Meals on Wheels San Diego County’s community of supporters while blending seamlessly into the environment. “We wanted the place to support every layer of their work—volunteers, donors, staff, and visitors,” said Jill Russell-Layman, Principal at ID Studios. “It had to function on every level.”
Dealer Expertise That Made the Vision Work
While ID Studios led the architectural design, the project’s success also relied on the expertise of Parron Hall, a San Diego-based contract furniture dealer known for aligning workspace solutions with real-world functionality. Their involvement ensured the design vision translated seamlessly into daily operations.
Account Executive Evelyn Drummond was instrumental in this process—anticipating infrastructure challenges and helping shape furniture solutions that supported both current workflows and future growth. “This was more than just placing furniture,” said Drummond. “It was about designing for how people move, connect, and work.”
From fine-tuning layout efficiency to supporting the seamless implementation of Allsteel’s workstation systems, Parron Hall’s strategic insights helped bring lasting performance to a space built with purpose.
Furniture That Supports Flexibility and Connection
Building on that foundation, Allsteel’s adaptable furniture solutions helped bring the vision to life. “We worked closely with the team to select pieces that supported their desire for flexibility and comfort,” said Kassandra Becerril, Senior Designer at ID Studios. With Allsteel’s insight and versatile product solutions, the team was able to create spaces that promote both individual focus and team connection. Their contribution helped ensure the environment not only looks beautiful but works seamlessly for the people who rely on it every day.
A Space That Reflects and Fuels Their Mission
The completed headquarters offers more than just improved functionality. It provides a sense of belonging and purpose. Every element was designed to support the people behind the mission and to welcome the community they serve. “Wakefield’s excitement during the final walkthrough was absolutely infectious,” said Guerena. “It was the kind of moment that reminds you why thoughtful design matters.”
With a space that now truly supports the depth of their work, Meals on Wheels San Diego County is prepared for what’s ahead. The organization plans to deliver two million meals annually within the next five years—an ambitious goal rooted in compassion and community. “They’ve always led with heart,” said Fordham. “Now they have a space that reflects that passion and helps carry it forward.”
If you’d like to support their mission or learn more about how you can get involved, visit meals-on-wheels.org.
PRODUCT SOLUTIONS
Workstations:
Approach™
Altitude™
Seating:
Lyric™
Vicinity™
Seek™
Benching:
Mural™
Screen & Dividers:
Daybook™