An office that enables growth in a prime location in Helsinki
We designed the new 1,000-square metre office of Lieke Attorneys Ltd in the high-value property The First on Aleksanterinkatu. In the new high-quality premises, the focus was on a space that meets the requirements of the demanding work of lawyers and attorneys-at-law and incorporates a classic design. “The office space strengthens our corporate image. Our new premises also reflect Lieke’s growth and development,” says Jussi Ekonen, one of Lieke’s Partners, describing the significance of the new premises.
A state-of-the-art office for a thriving corporate culture
We were responsible for the interior design and graphic identity of Lieke’s work environment, as well as the coordination of the implementation. We also ensured that the spatial experience, quality and responsibilities for alteration work correspond with Lieke’s needs. Bureau Real Estate, already familiar with and trusted by Lieke, found new premises for the client. “The aim was to create a valuable and trustworthy but also warm atmosphere for the office. We reviewed, for example, the surface materials of the property already during the rent negotiation phase, according to Lieke’s wishes,” says Aino Keto, the project’s Lead Designer.
“We are really happy with the result. The premises are high-quality and stylish. We also received a lot of valuable support with the lessor. You supervised our interests as a client and discussed the quality level with us – for example, the layout of the premises turned out great. We were able to eliminate wasted space. It was also a great idea to build a so-called core in the middle of the office, where Lieke employees can gather,” Jussi says.
The break room is centrally placed and serves as a shared meeting place. The offices are naturally located in the quieter wings of the floor.
The aim of the project was to design an office that:
- Increases attraction among staff
- Strengthens the company’s values and work culture
- Acts as a business card in meetings with clients and partners
In addition to the actual planning meetings, a workshop was held with the project team and an interview with an IT expert and office manager in order to create a future-proof and practical office. The pull factors of the new office include shared encounters and events, which are not available in the home office, as well as spaces designed for focused work.
“The shared break room has become one of the most popular functions at the new office, where people can meet one another and organise a variety of events. Another important aspect of Lieke’s premises is the sound insulation, which is top-class especially in customer premises and offices,” says Aino, describing the design principles of the new premises and the user experiences.
"The aim was to create a presentable and attractive space for current and potential new employees and clients. It is important that the office is functional and pleasant for the employees – and we succeeded in this"
Jussi Ekonen, Partner, Attorney-at-Law, Lieke
Classic and casual atmosphere delights users
Visually, the employees wanted the premises to have a stylish yet approachable atmosphere that reflects expertise and reliability in a warm way. The starting point for the visual look was the recently renewed brand identity, with copper and green tones that reflect the energy economy. The client wanted the same colours to be visible in the new office.
“We didn’t follow the latest trends in the design of the property, but instead selected durable and high-quality furniture and materials. Many visitors have said how much they admire the beautiful new premises,” says Kaisa Sinisalo, Interior Architect, describing the atmosphere of the Lieke office.
Electricity is a recurring theme in Lieke’s brand identity and interior design. The name “Lieke” was originally suggested by Elias Lönnrot as the Finnish word for “electricity”. Copper, on the other hand, is particularly suitable for these premises, as it conducts electricity and is also visible in the new brand.
Graphic details derived from the Lieke brand complete the elegant premises.
We also designed customised fixtures for the property, such as a piece of furniture that connects the bench and the coat rack in the hallway.
We did not follow current trends in the design of the property, but instead selected durable and high-quality furniture and materials.
Copper is also featured in the fixtures and partitions.
The sustainability of the office’s spatial and material solutions was taken into account in the design process and the end result. For example, the project made extensive use of existing furniture and took into account the adaptability of the premises. “Where possible, we retained the suspended ceiling lines and technical building systems of the property. The premises are naturally adapted to different uses, as the lighting, for example, can be adjusted to different moods,” says Aino.
“We entered the new millennium compared to our previous office. The premises are functional, employees enjoy coming to the office and working there. It’s nice to have premises that reflect who we are as a company,” says Jussi with a smile.
Photos Mikael Pettersson
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You can also read Lieke’s news article about the move or the reference story (in Finnish) by Bureau Real Estate who found the new premises for Lieke.
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