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Workspace Design from Three Starting Points
A large Nordic financial company renewed the workspaces and work cafes of its Helsinki-based property complex, which serves as a workplace for approximately 4,000 employees. Workspace served as the client’s partner in spatial design, planning the premises across six different construction phases during a two-year project.
It had been nearly ten years since the previous renovation, and the spaces needed updates to surface materials, furnishings, and technology. The goal was to create a harmonious and atmospheric work environment that supports modern ways of working and reflects the company’s new international brand concept—while keeping economic considerations and sustainable development principles in mind. During the design process, users’ wishes were actively gathered, and preliminary plans were presented to staff before finalization.
Sustainability and Reuse of Existing Elements
Sustainability and the reuse of existing elements became key guiding principles for the project. The design aimed to make maximum use of old loose and fixed furniture as well as surface materials. Usable loose furniture was reupholstered, and in break areas, existing fixed furniture was refreshed by painting doors, replacing countertops and handles, and modifying cabinet frames. Dishwashers were fitted into old kitchen units, allowing the elimination of disposable coffee cups and reducing the amount of energy waste.
In workspaces, old textile carpets were cleaned and replaced with new ones where necessary. Old carpets were recycled back to the factory for reuse whenever possible. In meeting and retreat rooms, surplus glass walls and doors from the property were utilized, and when needed, they were lightly updated by renewing surface finishes.
International Spatial Brand Concept as the Cornerstone of Design
The foundation of all design work was the company’s international workplace concept, which defined space types, their relationships and placement, as well as colour schemes and material choices. The concept was adapted to the designed spaces while considering the client’s budget, sustainability goals, and user needs. The colour palette of the international concept was softened to better suit the Finnish mindset and context.
To improve the comfort of workspaces, large open areas were divided into smaller units by adding various space-dividing elements to break up the space. These elements not only visually structured the space but also improved acoustics and added comfort and atmosphere. Slatted floor screens with planters and curtains between workstations, wooden surfaces, and houseplants added warmth and coziness. Decorative lighting was used to emphasise a soft ambience. The harmonious atmosphere was given interest and character by choosing an accent colour from the client’s space concept for individual interior lighting fixtures.
Atmospheric and Functional Workspaces
The client’s employees work primarily on-site, which increased the need for additional workstations. Through careful planning, the increase in workstation numbers did not result in crowded spaces; instead, the premises retained a sense of openness and calm. By zoning and dividing work areas into smaller sections, suitable environments were created for both quiet, focused work and interactive, dynamic collaboration. Colours and signage were used to clearly communicate the character of different work areas. Excess storage furniture was removed and replaced with personal lockers for all employees, supporting flexible use of the spaces.
The result is a comfortable, functional workspace aligned with the international concept—an environment where employees enjoy working and which supports the company’s modern work culture.
