Integra Seating: Bringing Comfort & Connection to Inmate Visitation [Case Study]
Reimagining visitation with Integra Seating to foster dignity, connection, and ease for families and inmates.
Innovating Safer, More Human-Centered Visitation with Integra Seating & Technology
When the Lake County Jail in Crown Point, Indiana, decided to overhaul its visitation system, they partnered with Norix to create a solution that prioritized both connection and security.
By incorporating Integra Seating and new video visitation technology, the facility achieved a comfortable and durable visitation space that fostered meaningful connections. Families can now connect with loved ones in thoughtfully designed environments that prioritize both human dignity and operational efficiency.
Addressing a System Stuck in the Past
Visiting a loved one in jail is often stressful and emotionally taxing. For Lake County Jail, their previous contact and non-contact visitation systems only added to this burden:
The process was cumbersome and inefficient.
- Visitors faced extensive security checks to access the visitation area, creating long waits and unnecessary stress.
- Correctional officers spent over 25% of their work hours escorting inmates, draining resources that could be better utilized elsewhere.
- The space itself lacked the privacy and dignity families needed to feel comfortable during visits.
These issues highlighted the urgent need for a more efficient, accessible, and humanized approach.
The Turning Point: A Vision for Change
Lake County Jail made the decision to implement a Video Visitation system, but technology alone wasn’t enough. They needed a solution that combined secure operations with thoughtful, human-centered design.
This is where Norix came in. Working alongside the jail’s team and its partners, Norix developed a tailored solution that balanced durability, functionality, and comfort with Integra furniture.
A Partnership Built on Customization & Trust
Norix’s approach went beyond simply providing furniture—it created an environment that fosters meaningful connections without sacrificing security or durability. The inclusion of Integra Seating played a key role in achieving this balance.
- Custom Design: Norix tailored solutions, such as the Intelestation® Series, to integrate seamlessly with technology and accommodate visitors.
- Durability and Security: Integra Furniture, crafted with stainless steel, ensured the facility’s long-term investment while maintaining a polished appearance.
- Comfort for Families: With Integra Seating, families now enjoy private, inviting spaces that enhance their visitation experience.
- Streamlined Scheduling: Online scheduling tools make arranging visits as easy as a click, reducing stress for families.
- Long-Term Value: Norix’s durable furniture solutions, including Integra Seating, are designed to stand the test of time while enhancing facility operations.
The Result: A New Era of Visitation, Connection, & Stability
The partnership between Norix and Lake County Jail didn’t just address the challenges—it exceeded expectations. The new video visitation system brought immediate benefits:
- Flexibility for Visitors: Families could now schedule visits online, choosing times that fit their needs.
- Faster Screening: A streamlined process reduced wait times and made the experience less stressful for all involved.
- Enhanced Security: By eliminating traditional contact and non-contact visitation in secure areas, the facility reduced opportunities for contraband and improved safety.
- Cost Savings: With a 25% reduction in correctional officer man-hours tied to visitation, staff could refocus on core operational needs.
The success of this transformation lies in the collaboration and shared vision between Lake County and Norix. By combining innovative technology with thoughtful design, they created a system that works better for everyone—officers, inmates, and families alike.
Ready to Make a Lasting Impact on Your Justice Facility?
At Norix, we believe in designing environments that balance security, functionality, and comfort. Our durable furniture solutions, including the Integra Furniture line, are crafted to meet the unique needs of justice facilities.
Let’s reimagine your space together.