Merck Headquarters Guest Center & Lantern Cafe – Rahway, NJ

Ballinger, a nationally acclaimed design firm, partnered with Fortune 500 leader Merck to reimagine key architectural elements of the company’s Rahway, NJ campus as part of a sweeping modernization initiative.

Central to this transformation was the use of Swisspearl® high-density fiber cement panels, supplied by Cladding Corp, to deliver long-lasting performance and refined aesthetics across multiple campus focal points.

Swisspearl panels were prominently featured on the new entrance gate station and signature crosswalk, creating a unified and contemporary identity that welcomes guests and employees alike. A standout addition, the Lantern Café, uses Swisspearl to striking effect - pairing crisp design with everyday durability to establish a social hub that bridges innovation and hospitality. The Auditorium facade also integrates Swisspearl HDFC panels, contributing fire resistance, clean lines, and enduring performance.

Together, Ballinger’s vision and Cladding Corp’s high-performance material solutions have helped redefine Merck’s campus as a modern, resilient, and design-forward environment.