Astrid

When Avensia decided to create a new office concept, Ideas, as the interior architects and project managers, took on the challenge of designing a workplace that would reflect the company's values and support the needs of its employees. Initially, the project was to cover three offices, but soon it expanded to five. To create a cohesive design across multiple locations, Ideas focused on a schematic layout and a carefully considered concept rather than the limitations of individual spaces. This approach enabled a flexible design where various functions were integrated, resulting in a dynamic social arena for collaboration and a sense of unity.

Patrik often speaks about the concept of a “generous workplace” – an environment designed to meet people’s needs and support how we function and interact at our best. By involving employees in the planning process, they were able to identify the unique requirements of each office, forming the foundation for a well-thought-out concept.

It is Patrik Haglund at Ideas in Malmö who is the mastermind behind Avensia’s office concept. Patrik often speaks about the concept of a “generous workplace” – an environment designed to meet people’s needs and support how we function and interact at our best. By involving employees in the planning process, they were able to identify the unique requirements of each office, forming the foundation for a well-thought-out concept. High-quality materials and a well-developed colour palette form the foundation. The colour scheme consists of natural tones and energising accent colours, all designed to create a workplace that exudes care and professionalism.

The curtains play an important role as both accent colours and natural elements. In addition to serving as dividers, screens, or sun protection, they bring a sense of softness to the rooms. By using our fabrics, which include both sheer and dense options in the same colour palette, the design adapts to different functions without compromising the cohesive colour scheme. The design of the curtains, with a small pleat at each glider, creates a relaxed yet elegant look that fits perfectly with the environment.

The curtains play an important role as both accent colours and natural elements. In addition to serving as dividers, screens, or sun protection, they bring a sense of softness to the rooms. By using our fabrics, which include both sheer and dense options in the same colour palette, the design adapts to different functions without compromising the cohesive colour scheme. The design of the curtains, with a small pleat at each glider, creates a relaxed yet elegant look that fits perfectly with the environment.

To cater to the varied work styles and preferences of individuals, Ideas has placed great emphasis on creating diverse work environments. The new concept builds on the idea that a multifaceted workplace can enhance engagement for all employees by offering favourite spaces they can choose based on the task at hand or their work mood.

Avensia’s offices are now designed around the following elements:

The Arena – the social hub, with a lounge, touch-down area, coffee bar, and kitchenette, providing informal meeting spaces.

Collab Boxes – smaller spaces for focus or collaboration, relieving the larger meeting rooms.

The Multi-room – a flexible space for physical activity, workshops, and meetings.

Project and meeting rooms – rooms in various sizes with adaptable furnishings to suit diverse needs.

Thomas Horrdin, Director of Development at Avensia in Malmö, describes the concept as something truly unique for the company, far from a standard renovation: “There’s a sense of familiarity no matter which location you visit, while each office still has its own touch.” After the pandemic’s shift towards hybrid work models, Avensia recognised the need for an identity-rich working environment, a need confirmed through employee surveys and Ideas’ internal workshops.