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Workspace, in collaboration with the project team of IT consulting and software development company WeAre, designed new premises for the company in Länsi-Pasila, Helsinki. The postmodernist building was originally constructed as the headquarters of a magazine publisher in 1987. It has now been thoroughly renovated and updated to serve the needs of future working environments.
The aim was to create a multifunctional space focused on encounters and experiences. WeAre employees work in various locations both in Finland and abroad. The new office was intended to be so “cool” that it would entice people to drop by for meetings or even without any specific reason. The office was also envisioned as an impressive calling card for the growth company and to function flexibly for different corporate and staff events outside regular office hours.
Transformation of the space – a showpiece open staircase and balcony-like structures
The project began with an exploration of the space in its raw phase. The transformation was extensive. For instance, the former rooftop terrace was converted into interior space. The architecture of the space differs from a conventional office – a loft-like upper floor, a two-story high ceiling, and an impressive open staircase connecting the floors create a loft-inspired environment.
The raw concrete surfaces revealed after the demolition work were left exposed, and not all wall surfaces were smoothed. The client wanted some “rock ‘n’ roll” to the space, so we emphasized contrasts, roughness, and drama in the color and material design. The abundant natural light allowed for the use of bold and dark tones.
The lower floor was fitted with a variety of meeting rooms, a performance area called “Stage,” workstations, and casual drop-in spaces. The upper floor, which previously housed a VIP sauna, was converted into a multifunctional work café and open space suitable for project work. The spaces can be flexibly divided using various curtain solutions. As a nod to the former sauna, a fixed bench structure resembling a sauna bench was created from chipboard at the back of the space.
Circular economy played a significant role in this project. A significant amount of WeAre’s well-maintained old furniture was reused in the new premises. Even a vibrant shade of orange from the old furniture was chosen to add a touch of color and material inspiration. New furniture was ordered sparingly, and the selections focused on timeless and high-quality solutions.
Lighting for comfort and individuality
An important goal for WeAre was to achieve impactful and adaptable lighting in the new office space for different situations. In addition to adjustable workstation lighting, the lighting design had the following objectives and uses:
An intelligent lighting system was created, allowing WeAre’s programmers to program it themselves in the future. We eagerly anticipate how the lighting will evolve in the future!
Achieving the best results through effective collaboration
Throughout the project, the collaboration was characterized by a good and innovative atmosphere, and the new spaces were eagerly awaited. The functionality and appearance of the space were developed in close collaboration with WeAre’s project team. In addition, regular planning meetings were held with YIT, the company responsible for the renovation, to find ways to bring the designs to implementation. It was a pleasure to be part of a project where all parties had a great team spirit and a shared goal of creating functional and impressive spaces tailored to WeAre’s needs.
