Meaningful changes – sunny greetings from Albert!

Insights – Kristiina Kaitala


In June, we moved from the 6th floor on Kaikukatu to street level on Albertinkatu. We are excited about our brand-new, dedicated premises!

The relocation was a strategic choice – culturally, it has a positive impact and strengthens the sense of togetherness within our work community. From an ecological and financial perspective, moving into our own, more efficient space is naturally a sustainable decision.

Both of our companies, Kakadu and Silvana, had operated for several years in Kallio, in the foyer of the former banquet hall of Elanto’s old headquarters. Those years were rewarding in many ways, until we began to notice a decline in office use with the rise of hybrid work. This mirrored the experience of countless other organisations. Adapting to the new circumstances was inevitable and called for flexibility in embracing the new reality.

Design office employee working on laptop on windowsill while talking on phone

A new chapter begins on Albertinkatu

We were looking for our own spaces better suited to our new needs, exploring several different locations. From the very beginning, we knew we wanted to be closer to our stakeholders and clients, while also contributing to the vibrant spirit of central Helsinki.

Fredrikinlinna, familiarly known as Albertti, completed in 1929 for residential and commercial use, is located in the heart of Kamppi at Albertinkatu 46.
Our spatial design was strongly guided by supporting our team’s sense of community as well as stakeholder and client interactions, by creating an architecturally inspired atmosphere (for example, the original tiled floor was uncovered from beneath several layers), and by spatial solutions that genuinely serve our future needs. The guiding philosophy is the same as in our daily client work: create according to need and in the right proportion – thoughtfully and with foresight.
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Change is always an opportunity to do things differently

Change offers us the chance to learn, grow, and deepen our professional identity and perspective. As designers, we are constantly observing our surroundings on many levels, so breaking routines, experimenting with new ways of working, and stepping outside our comfort zones is not only welcome but also essential for our development.

At Kakadu and Silvana, we support professional development and knowledge transfer naturally through everyday interactions — both organically and in a more structured way. For years, we have operated according to the model of a learning organization, sharing knowledge within teams and from one individual to another. It is clear that learning is more meaningful and deeper when it happens face-to-face. 
 As a work community, the flexibility offered by hybrid work remains important to all of us. At the same time, we want to strengthen a culture of collaboration and learning by putting Albertti to active use. Our receptiveness and ability to internalize new topics grows as we gather information from different channels, sources, and experts — and when we connect ideas to concrete experiences with colleagues and partners. In our view, Albertti’s central location perfectly supports this approach!
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Work-life balance begins with the well-being of each individual. When transforming a workplace, thoughtful design must be accompanied by strong change leadership, clear communication, and effective project management. A carefully designed work environment releases the energy of the team, fosters renewal, and helps build the company’s long-term competitive strength.

Kristiina Kaitala, Partner & Business director, Kakadu

Designing spaces for a sustainable future

An empty or underused building is simply unsustainable. We all share a responsibility to make the most of the spaces around us. At Kakadu and Silvana, we want to be an active part of the city’s vibrant life and contribute to its ever-evolving community. We are optimistic about a brighter future across the industry and market!

Looking forward to seeing you soon – you’re warmly invited to drop by!

Kristiina Kaitala

Partner Kakadu & Silvana
Business director
Interior architect SIO

+358 40 572 3859
kristiina@kakadu.fi

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