Fyra was given a challenge to create a first-class employee experience through flexible spatial solutions, cutting-edge technology, and bringing a focus on well-being and sustainability as primary drivers. The workplace, comprising two existing buildings from 50’s and 60’s merged with two newly constructed floors, underwent a comprehensive, two-year renovation. This transformation was driven by a commitment to enhance the employee, client, and brand experience, while understanding the character and the heritage of the buildings. The design principles including sustainability, timeless and future-proof solutions, along with social input, aligned seamlessly with EY’s vision for an exceptional employee experience. The premises’ design integrates layers and diversity by merging classical elements with modern details, creating an inviting and easily approachable environment that align with the organic spread of the culture.

Accommodating approximately 900 workers, the new workplace adopted a hospitality-driven workplace concept. The service concept aimed to elevate the ordinary workday by providing amenities such as a gym, lunch and breakfast services, barista-made coffees, and postal services. The visual design concept embodies the comfort and warmth synonymous with the hospitality industry, diverging from the typical corporate office aesthetic we are accustomed to. Activities promoting well-being were integral to the employee experience. Embracing innovative work practices and full flexibility, the office strives to be an inviting space, shaping the desired working world of the future. Leveraging modern technology, the entire space can be navigated using a smart office tool that assists in wayfinding and locating suitable work set-ups and team members.

Nestlé recognized the need for change as remote work gained traction, leading to the reshaping and down scaling of their Keilaniemi office space. Situated by a metro station and major commuting routes with stunning sea views, staying in the same premises was a preferred option. From the outset, sustainability was a driving force behind the spatial design. The fusion of accessibility and nature not only aligned with sustainability goals but also contributed to the essence of the project.

The design aims to foster collaboration and individual productivity by drawing inspiration from the architecture and the surroundings. Additionally, it places an emphasis on biophilia, recognizing its pivotal role in enhancing the employees’ well-being. Rooted in Nestlé’s brand narrative, the design offers flexible work setups to accommodate individual ways of working. Dedicated spaces for relaxation, physical activity, and efficient phone booths without seats embody the commitment to a dynamic work environment.

The project prioritizes both ecological and economic sustainability by preserving existing furniture and minimizing modifications. 40% of the furniture in the new office was reused without alterations, undergoing a deep clean for maintenance. Another 30% received a facelift to replace worn surfaces. New purchases, essential as there was no pre-existing suitable furniture, were strategically placed in the ‘The Nest’, a working café, the office’s central point of welcome.

The majority of working and meeting rooms were furnished with existing pieces, including the kitchen, where cabinetry and appliances found new positions. Second-hand pieces replaced some items on the furniture procurement list. Notably, 90% of recycled furniture was processed by companies ensuring reuse and avoiding landfill. The design emphasizes long-lasting materials, versatile use of space, and sustainability, favouring reused, recycled, and recyclable materials.

The upper level of the former UPM headquarter building was to be transformed into a functional office space with a distinctively esteemed ambience for investment bank Carnegie’s new home. The design process started by pre-establishing a few clear principles: since the operations are run by two separate divisions, Investment Banking and Securities, the space needed to be physically separated for regulatory reasons. In spite of the units’ separation, it was imperative to have a large functional break out area in order to facilitate daily breakfasts and unplanned encounters between teams during the day.

Original materials, such as glass walls and doors, as well as notable amount of existing materials like suspended ceilings, were preserved to the greatest extent possible. With modern wooden furniture and timeless design classics, the space reflects Nordic atmosphere and ages with dignity. The broad, dark wooden surfaces reflect the aspired ambience of prestige. The design language communicates with the historical architecture of the building, with furniture, acoustic solutions, and structure designed to calm down the open office space.

Before the project, Trevian, a real estate investment and asset management company, put the marketing of the project out to tender. Interior Architects Fyra won the interior design bid. It was a cooperation project together with creative agency Dynamo & Son and PR agency Drum.