Y-Säätiö´s new spaces strengthen community and enhance ways of working

When Y-Säätiö moved to its new premises in Pasila, the change was significant: from three separate floors to a single shared level, and from individual offices to open, communal spaces. The move represented far more than just new square meters – it fostered a stronger sense of community and created versatile opportunities for collaboration and everyday work.

40 years as a pioneer in preventing homelessness

Y-Säätiö is Finland’s largest nationwide non-profit landlord and a leading organisation in combating homelessness. Founded in 1985, the foundation marked its 40th anniversary in 2025. It owns over 19,000 homes, including properties for special groups and its M2-Homes portfolio. The organisation employs around 193 people.

The new offices in Pasila cover around 1,800 square metres. The new office brings together employees who previously worked on three different floors and provides an entirely new setting – both for staff and for clients visiting the customer service area.

From private offices to collaborative workspaces

At the heart of the design was strengthening community interaction. Previously, employees were separated across floors in individual offices, which limited spontaneous encounters. Now, all staff operate on the same level, which has increased communication and a sense of unity. The project also reinforced the concept of one cohesive Y-Säätiö.

“The space change has reinforced the feeling that we are one large Y-Säätiö. Encounters with colleagues now happen more naturally and spontaneously than when we worked in private rooms,” says Communications and Marketing Director, Minna Pääkkönen.

Spaces that adapt to the rhythm of work

The new offices offer a variety of working zones: quiet areas for concentration, open spaces for teamwork, functional meeting rooms, and shared lounges. Also under the same roof is a customer service area offering housing advice by appointment.

“We aimed for an interior that is harmonious and inspiring, supporting our brand identity. Our graphic guidelines offered clear direction — for example, our brand colours blue and green are used boldly yet consistently. These colours help the spaces feel distinctly ours and reinforce Y-Säätiö´s identity,” Pääkkönen explains.

In addition, the layout was designed to support staff wellbeing. The offices include a gym, café, and staff dining facilities — all in one location. The atrium courtyard and adjacent meeting spaces extend the environment and offer a versatile venue for events and partner meetings.

From the initial shock to the power of community

Moving to smaller premises and giving up private offices initially raised concerns. The number of workstations was reduced by one third. However, the hybrid work model and flexible spatial solutions made the transition smooth.

“Letting go of private offices was a shock for many at first, but very quickly we realised the hybrid model works, and everyone found their place in the new environment. The spaces have proven flexible — they lower unit boundaries and make collaboration more natural. People from different departments meet more easily now, and teamwork is easier,” says Pääkkönen, satisfied that the transformation strengthened community across the organisation.

Spaces that support everyday work and well-being

The new premises support Y-Säätiö´s operations on multiple levels. They facilitate both client-facing and internal work, encourage daily interaction, and promote staff wellbeing.

“Our new facilities are above all a place where it is good to work together. It’s been a joy to see how the work atmosphere has strengthened and daily operations run more smoothly. One change stands out above all: moving from dispersed floors to a single shared level — a decision that transforms everyday interaction and fosters a deeper sense of belonging. Our cooperation with ISKU was smooth; open communication and active collaboration kept the project manageable,” Pääkkönen emphasises.

Y-Säätiö´s new offices are more than just a workplace — they embody the organisation’s approach, strengthening collaboration and equipping it for future needs. When day-to-day work flows well and staff thrive, Y-Säätiö is better positioned to fulfil its mission in homelessness prevention.

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Interior Design | Interior Design Seija Strand Oy