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

When the Swedish Union ST needed a new office, the goal was clear – the workplace should reflect the organisation’s mission and values. With support from WeOffice, a sustainable and flexible environment was created where collaboration, culture and wellbeing take centre stage. The result was more than just new premises: an office that strengthens both ST’s identity and their way of working for the future.

Background – When the Office Needed to Reflect the Mission

ST is Sweden’s largest union for employees in the public sector. As an organisation dedicated to improving working conditions and promoting collaboration in the workplace, ST wanted their own office to lead by example – a space that embodied their values and supported modern ways of working.

However, their previous office posed several challenges: fixed structures, limited flexibility, and an environment that didn’t fully encourage collaboration or reflect the culture. The vision was to create a workplace that would act as a driver for engagement, efficiency, and sustainability. That’s when WeOffice stepped in.

The Challenge – More Than Just New Premises

ST faced several key challenges:

• A workplace that reflects the mission: The office needed to embody ST’s focus on work environment, participation and collaboration.

• An end-to-end solution: The organisation required guidance throughout the entire journey – from strategy and design to construction and move-in.

• Sustainability in practice: Reuse and resource efficiency were to be central elements.

• Culture and engagement: The new workplace should foster pride, belonging and identity – not just function as a place to work.

In short, a comprehensive workplace strategy was required – not just a new floor plan.

The Journey with WeOffice – From Strategy to Completion

Step 1: Workplace Strategy
The process began with a thorough workplace strategy. Together, ST and WeOffice mapped out needs, values and work processes. The goal: a flexible, sustainable and culturally grounded office environment.

Step 2: Construction and Procurement
WeOffice supported ST throughout the building process – from procurement and project management to quality assurance. A clear plan tied the process together and reduced risks of surprises along the way.

Step 3: Sustainable Design
Architect and workplace strategist Sven and the rest of the WeOffice team focused on reuse and smart design choices: walls, furniture and IT equipment were given a new life. The outcome was both an environmental win and a dynamic office that blends the old and the new to create something inspiring.

The Client’s Voice

Linda Nyström, Deputy Head of Operations and HR at ST, describes the experience:

“The best part of this process was that we received help from start to finish. Everything – from strategy and layout to construction and interior design – was connected in a smooth and structured way, and it shows in the end result. We also managed to stay on schedule and within budget. It truly feels like we’ve got an office that reflects both our needs and our culture.”

The Transformation – A Workplace for the Future

• Flexibility: A variety of workspaces – from creative rooms and a library to open areas and flexible collaboration zones.

• Sustainability: Maximum reuse of furniture, partitions and IT solutions.

• Wellbeing: Social spaces, kitchen areas and a welcoming atmosphere.

• Collaboration: Smart spaces and technology for both physical and digital meetings.

• Culture: A space that strengthens ST’s identity and sense of 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 mission and its culture.

Key benefits:

• Right-sized: Optimised for current and future needs.

• Sustainable: Both environmentally and economically.

• Attractive: A place where employees feel proud and enjoy being.

• Comprehensive: From strategy to completion – one consistent process.

As Linda summarises:

“We worked as partners rather than client and supplier. That made all the difference – and the outcome speaks for itself.”

Voices from the Collaboration

WeOffice

“Following ST from strategy to completion has been an incredible journey. We’re proud to have contributed to a workplace that truly reflects their mission and values.”

ST:

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