More Than a Workplace – How ST – The union of Civil Servants – Created an Office That Reflects Their Values

When Fackförbundet ST needed a new office, the goal was clear: the workplace should reflect the organisation’s mission and values. With support from WeOffice, ST created a sustainable and flexible environment where collaboration, culture and wellbeing are at the centre. The outcome was more than new premises: an office that strengthens both ST’s identity and a future-ready way of working.

Background: When the office needed to reflect the mission

Fackförbundet ST is Sweden’s largest trade union for employees working within the public sector. With a central role in improving working conditions and representing its members, ST wanted its own workplace to set an example: an environment that reflected its values and supported how the organisation works.

The previous office came with limitations: fixed structures, low flexibility, and a layout that did not fully support collaboration, culture or evolving needs. ST wanted a workplace that could act as a catalyst for engagement, effectiveness and sustainability. That is where WeOffice came in.

The challenge: More than just premises

ST faced several challenges:

• A workplace aligned with the mission: The office needed to reflect the organisation’s focus on a healthy work environment, collaboration and participation.
• A complete end-to-end solution: Support was needed throughout the process – from strategy to build, interior design and move-in.
• Sustainability in practice: Reuse and resource efficiency had to be central principles.
• Culture and involvement: The new office should build pride and a sense of belonging – not just provide desks.

In short: ST needed a cohesive strategy, not simply a new floor plan.

The journey with WeOffice: From strategy to a finished office

Step 1: The workplace strategy

The project started with a thorough workplace strategy. Together, ST’s needs, values and ways of working were mapped. The aim was clear: an office that is flexible, sustainable and rooted in the organisation’s culture.

Step 2: Build and procurement

WeOffice supported ST throughout the build process – from procuring contractors to project management and quality assurance. A clear plan tied everything together and reduced the risk of unwelcome surprises along the way.

Step 3: Sustainable design

The architect and workplace strategist Sven, together with the WeOffice team, focused on reuse and smart, practical solutions. Walls, furniture and IT solutions were given a new life. The result was both an environmental gain and a dynamic working environment – combining existing and new elements to create something genuinely inspiring.

Step 4: The client’s voice

Linda Nyström, Deputy Head of Secretariat for Operations Management and HR, and one of the key people in the project at ST, describes the experience:

“The best thing about this process is that we received support from start to finish. Everything from strategy and layout to build and interior design came together smoothly – and you can tell in the final result. We also managed to keep both the timeline and the budget. It truly feels like we now have an office adapted to our needs and our culture.”

The change in practice: An office designed for the future

The new workplace enables:

• Flexibility: A variety of work settings – from creative rooms and a library to open-plan areas, flexible workrooms and collaboration rooms.
• Sustainability: Maximised reuse of furniture, walls and IT solutions.
• Wellbeing: Social areas, a kitchenette and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Collaboration: Spaces and technology for both in-person and digital meetings.
• Culture: An environment that reinforces ST’s identity and pride.

The result: More than an office

ST’s new office is more than a workplace. It is an environment that strengthens both the organisation’s culture and its mission.

The benefits are clear:

• Right-sized: Optimised for today’s and tomorrow’s needs.
• Sustainable: Environmentally and financially responsible.
• Attractive: A place where employees feel comfortable and proud.
• End-to-end delivery: From strategy to a finished office.

As Linda summarises:

“We worked as partners rather than as customer and supplier. That made all the difference – and it was a big improvement compared to last time.”

Voices from the collaboration

WeOffice

“To support ST all the way – from strategy to a finished office – has been an inspiring journey. We are proud to have contributed to a work environment that truly reflects their mission and values.”

ST

“The office is more than a workplace. It is a symbol of our mission – to create better conditions for people in working life. And you can feel that in every part of the environment.”