When most people picture an internship, they think of cubicles, coffee runs, and endless spreadsheets. At KPMG’s training and innovation center in Lake Nona, Florida — affectionately called the “Lakehouse” — the reality is much different. Here, new hires and interns are welcomed with drumming parades, treated to soft serve ice cream, and even invited to unwind with a round of mini-golf. It’s corporate onboarding with the energy of summer camp, and it’s part of KPMG’s broader strategy to attract and retain top young talent.
The $450 million, 800,000-square-foot Lakehouse complex has become a symbol of the Big Four accounting firm’s investment in culture, learning, and employee experience. Opened in early 2020, the facility sits on 55 acres and is designed to blend cutting-edge professional training with a luxury resort feel. It has been described as a cross between a university campus, a hotel, and a playground for adults.
A Welcome Like No Other
Interns arriving at the Lakehouse aren’t met with a typical handshake-and-name-tag routine. Instead, they’re greeted by an energetic welcome parade — complete with live drumming, music, and cheering KPMG staff. This lively entrance sets the tone for a week that’s equal parts skill-building and team bonding.
KPMG understands that first impressions matter. In an industry where competition for young accounting and consulting talent is fierce, creating a memorable and uplifting start can make all the difference. The drumming parade isn’t just for show — it’s a deliberate cultural signal that KPMG values people as much as performance.
Learning Meets Lifestyle
The Lakehouse isn’t just a place to have fun; it’s also a state-of-the-art learning facility. Inside, you’ll find 90 learning and innovation rooms equipped with the latest audiovisual tech, large collaboration spaces, and immersive workshop areas. KPMG uses these spaces for training sessions that range from leadership development to the latest in accounting technology and AI-driven analytics.
But unlike typical training centers, the Lakehouse is designed to be inspiring rather than institutional. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the rooms with Florida sunshine. Open spaces are decorated with art, greenery, and sleek modern furniture. The idea is to encourage creativity and collaboration — not just compliance with corporate protocols.
Food, Fun, and Free Time
Food is a big part of the Lakehouse experience. Interns and employees can enjoy an array of gourmet dining options, with chefs preparing everything from fresh salads to international cuisine. The facility’s most talked-about feature, however, might be its soft serve ice cream station — a nostalgic touch that brings out the kid in everyone.
After a long day of training, guests can unwind in the recreational areas. The Lakehouse has a mini-golf course, outdoor walking trails, and multiple lounges. There’s also a fitness center, a pool, and spaces for yoga and meditation. For KPMG, these amenities aren’t just perks — they’re part of an intentional design to foster balance and well-being.
Why the Lakehouse Exists
The Lakehouse represents a significant investment in people, and it’s part of a larger shift in how companies are approaching recruitment and retention. For KPMG, it serves several purposes:
- Talent Attraction — The firm wants to stand out in a competitive job market, particularly among Gen Z candidates who value experiences and culture.
- Retention — Employees who feel connected to a company from day one are more likely to stay.
- Learning Innovation — By housing advanced tech and flexible learning environments, KPMG can deliver cutting-edge training.
- Brand Building — The Lakehouse is a talking point that reinforces KPMG’s identity as a forward-thinking, people-first organization.
In an era where hybrid and remote work dominate, in-person corporate gatherings have to offer something special. KPMG’s Lakehouse delivers on that promise by creating an immersive, memorable experience that employees can’t get over Zoom.
Impact on Intern Experience
Internship programs are often the first point of entry for long-term careers. The Lakehouse transforms this critical moment into something more than just an onboarding process — it’s an initiation into the KPMG culture.
By giving interns access to senior leaders, cross-team collaboration opportunities, and unique social activities, KPMG helps build early loyalty. For the firm, it’s a chance to assess talent in an environment where individuals can show more than just technical skills.
The combination of professional learning and leisure activities encourages interns to build genuine relationships with their peers. This camaraderie often extends beyond the internship, creating lasting professional networks that can benefit both the individual and the company.
The Broader Corporate Trend
KPMG isn’t alone in reimagining training spaces. Companies like Deloitte, Google, and Apple have all invested in innovative learning hubs and employee campuses designed to inspire creativity. However, the Lakehouse stands out for its blend of professional focus and recreational flair.
As the competition for skilled professionals continues, especially in accounting, consulting, and technology, experiences like those offered at the Lakehouse could become an industry standard. Today’s employees — particularly younger generations — are looking for more than just a paycheck; they want an environment that supports their growth, health, and happiness.
Beyond the Fun: A Serious Business Purpose
While the drumming parades and ice cream might grab headlines, the Lakehouse’s deeper purpose is to ensure that KPMG’s people are equipped for the future of work. The firm faces industry challenges including digital transformation, evolving client demands, and a shifting regulatory landscape. By training employees in a dynamic, engaging environment, KPMG hopes to prepare them not just to meet these challenges, but to lead in solving them.
In many ways, the Lakehouse is a physical embodiment of the firm’s strategic priorities: innovation, collaboration, and a people-first mindset. And while the perks might be playful, the investment is serious — a bet that a strong, positive culture can deliver measurable business results.
KPMG’s Lakehouse is more than just a luxurious training facility — it’s a statement about the future of corporate culture. By combining professional development with an environment that’s fun, inspiring, and memorable, the firm is redefining what it means to start a career in a global professional services firm.
For interns, the message is clear: at KPMG, you’re not just another hire — you’re part of a community from day one. And whether it’s a leadership workshop, a round of mini-golf, or a celebratory ice cream cone, the Lakehouse ensures that first impressions are unforgettable.
