A landmark in Keilaniemi, the former Nokia headquarters, is awakening to a new life. ARC, an office campus of a thousand possibilities, is now opening its doors to all companies. Before this momentous occasion, the glass and steel structure and its surroundings will be renewed. The design and refurbishment work will be completed in phases between 2025 and 2026.

“The refurbishment project respects the building’s unique history and architecture,” says Teemu Salzwedel, Newsec’s Business Park Manager. “The goal is to create a modern and comfortable work environment that serves the needs of its users. The design and implementation emphasize comfort and functionality.”

The revamp extends from parking services to the building’s breathtaking rooftop terrace and garden area. Restaurant and meeting services are important at ARC. Traditional service models are complemented by lounge bar services and high-quality lobby services. In addition, tenants are offered versatile shared spaces that can be used for meetings, collaboration, and recreation. The refurbishment will create a modern, diverse, stylish, and insightful work environment where people enjoy spending time together.

Timeless Design

Franz Design, a design agency specializing in interior architecture, is responsible for the design of ARC’s refurbishment. The smooth cooperation has been based on mutual trust, and clear communication about the project’s goals.

The refurbishment project of this iconic building is a dream job for the designers.

“Projects that evoke emotions are great projects – even with the risk of criticism,” laughs Markus Viiperi, CEO of Franz.

Franz has utilized concept workshops in the design process, where they have considered the nature of the property and the development of Keilaniemi. The goal is to create an elegant look that stands the test of time.

The visual design of the spaces is based on ARC’s characteristic features: glass and steel. The building holds a unique place in the Finnish business world, and its dignity and history are cherished. 

“We don’t want to play around with trends,” Viiperi describes. “ARC has a wonderful diversity of light, reflections, and refractions. We want to emphasize these elements and create a spatial experience that feels natural and authentic.”

Space that Serves its Users

Creating a functional and comfortable work environment is a key goal of ARC’s refurbishment. The spaces and services at the office are designed to make people’s everyday lives easier and more enjoyable.

“Space must serve its users,” says Viiperi. “We want the space to promote well-being, whether it’s related to functionality or visual appeal. All of this is materialized in ARC.”

Alongside user experience, sustainability is visible throughout ARC’s service chain.

“We use 100% renewable energy and are constantly taking measures to improve energy efficiency,” says Ville Tanskanen, Leasing Manager at Newsec. “The BREEAM In-use Excellent environmental certificate awarded to the property demonstrates our commitment to responsible property management.”

ARC Invites Companies to Create the Future

ARC’s spaces are suitable for both quality-conscious “headquarters-level” companies and startups.

Companies of all sizes are now concerned thinking about ways to attract employees accustomed to remote work to return to the office – after all, work is also about collaboration, where the office brings together people and ideas and fuels the creation of new things.

“We hope that ARC will be a place where people want to come,” says Tanskanen. “This way, we support the strategic goals of our tenants and help them create a better company culture. Our goal is to create a work environment that supports companies’ success and helps them attract the best talent.”

Teemu Salzwedel agrees.

“There’s no point in having great spaces if no one uses them. The most important thing is that the user of the space is happy with it. ARC is a place where services, functionality, and visual appeal meet in a unique way.”