Kakadu as a company
From interior architecture to a wider scope of creative design
Kakadu was founded in 2006, and since then, we have embarked on a long and educational journey to this day. Over the years, we have grown, developed new ideas, and remained committed to our core values. Our journey has been primarily about a commitment to quality, listening to our clients, and sustainable development.
Our vision is to create responsible and meaningful changes in our field of work and around us. We integrate design, strategy, and creativity to develop innovative solutions. Our goal is to ensure that the outcomes achieved through collaboration transform people’s lives and enhance the success of our client companies.
We have gained valuable insights, and these experiences are guiding us towards new goals. And most importantly – the best is yet to come!
2006
Founding Kakadu
The joint study journey at the Lahti Institute of Design by founding partners Sanni and Milka laid a strong foundation for effective collaboration. Their diverse skills and distinct personal traits complemented each other well, leading to the idea of a shared mission: creating a work environment where we, and others, can make a meaningful impact.
2008
New insights and collaboration
In the early stages of Kakadu’s story, the impact of the global economic crisis could not be avoided. Adapting to the situation allowed gaining valuable insights through collaboration with industry veterans. Networks and experience expanded, and perseverance required for B2B service sales was developed. The first major workplace development project was successfully completed!
2012
Mastering the balance
Entrepreneurship and major life events required balancing family and work life. The roles within the entrepreneurial duo became clearer, and market shifts further honed their mission-driven approach. Prior sales experience and a curious, service-oriented mindset brought in larger interior design projects and significant collaborations with partners. The first framework contracts were signed, reflecting trust.
2016
Team and business growth
With significant growth, the team expanded to include around 10 interior architects. The founding partners delegated responsibilities to a third, new partner. Expertise capital increased as the first in-house graphic designer was hired, expanding design services. By 2019, the company reached its first million in revenue!
2020
Expansion of expertise and services
Kaikukatu had become a familiar home for Kakadu when the global pandemic forced this flock into home environments. Structures, processes, and ways of working were developed to support the expanded operations: service design and change management brought a new perspective to support design work.
2024
Work guided by mission and vision
Reaching full maturity at 18 years is a significant milestone for Kakadu and a suitable moment to clarify the future direction. The extensive experience gained and the confidence acquired through it enables the pursuit of even greater goals. The journey with diverse projects continues, always guided by our clients’ needs.
Towards controlled and transformative growth
Sustainability is a fundamental part of our long-term and systematic approach to practical operations in our business. We are committed to continuously improving our services through quality and environmental systems. We are members of FIGBC, Green Building Council Finland, and among the first signatories of the Interior Designers’ Emergency Declaration on Climate and Biodiversity.
Using the Materialisting platform, we can make responsible material choices and utilize product environmental data in projects of varying scales. We use Planmark’s reporting tool for ESRS reporting.
User and industry insight are always at the core of our design process. We support organizations interactively in change leadership, communication, and expectation management through strategic design methods.
Our mission in this context is to simplify complex systems and make knowledge more accessible and easier to adopt.
We are aware of our responsibility as designers of the built environment. In workplace and property development, we can contribute to reducing emissions (or utilizing emission reduction potential) and promoting resource-efficient material use. Additionally, we support increasing occupancy rates of properties and fostering community-oriented solutions in the hybrid era.
We are committed to taking steps toward transformative growth within our industry and actively seeking solutions in collaboration with our stakeholders, while considering the broader impact of our choices.
Our work is guided by
Renewal
A shared adventure lies ahead, and we lead the journey with curiosity. We aim to serve our clients by guiding the way and anticipating the next steps.
Authenticity
The world we observe is diverse. We dare to immerse ourselves, embrace who we are, and find joy in the uniqueness of each story. For us, authenticity means warmth and sincerity that leaves a lasting mark on our work.
Caring
We build bridges between people. The key ingredients in our interactions are presence, situational awareness, and kindness. We see the bigger picture and value balance – for the good of both people and the planet.
Joy
Joy adds meaning to the work we do. Humour, laughter, and positive energy unite us, and we wish to spread the same uplifting spirit wherever we make an impact.