From renovation to transformation: TOM creates new working environments

The transformation of Wincasa's locations represented one of the largest investments within TOM and, alongside the introduction of new roles, was arguably one of the changes that most significantly shaped employees' day-to-day working lives. Spaces influence collaboration, culture and interaction. The new locations follow a clear concept: open walk-in areas bring Wincasa closer to tenants and clients, providing accessible points of contact on site. At the same time, welcoming lounge-style meeting areas create a comfortable atmosphere for employees and visitors alike. The aim is to create places where people feel welcome and, to some extent, at home.

426 desks, 214 bar stools and 74 decorative cushions: the scale of the transformation is reflected in both the major changes and the smallest details. Added to these are 240 conference chairs and 31 new meeting tables, along with 294 espresso and coffee cups and 552 drinking glasses. These figures illustrate the comprehensive approach taken to designing the new working environments, from functional workstations to welcoming communal spaces.

This transformation would not have been possible without the close and collaborative partnership with our external partners. Special thanks go to H2A raum für Ideen AG for overall project management and interior design, as well as Gamma SA in French-speaking Switzerland and Garzoni SA in Ticino, all of whom made a significant contribution to the successful implementation.

Basel, Chur and Neuchâtel: three standout projects
Before being rolled out across Switzerland, the new workplace concept first took shape in Basel. Basel 1 served as the pilot project and played a decisive role in shaping the development of the other locations. Between the initial concept phase in June 2022 and the opening in June 2023, the "Welcome Home" concept was developed: Wincasa as a locally rooted, approachable and personal service provider, easily accessible to clients and tenants. The new locations were deliberately positioned on the ground floor in central locations. Small teams, welcoming reception areas designed with a homely feel and visible workspaces continue to define the concept today.

Samanta Lüscher and Simone Morant took over responsibility for the location project in May 2023 and managed it through to the completion of the nationwide rollout. They incorporated the lessons learned from the Basel 1 pilot directly into the further development of the concept, laying the foundation for its implementation throughout Switzerland. While Basel served as the prototype, individual solutions were developed at other locations to reflect their specific requirements and conditions.

In Chur, a deliberately pared-back yet distinctive approach was chosen for a temporary location intended to remain in use for several years. The result is an office in chalet-chic style, created with considerable creativity and a strong connection to the region. After numerous visits to second-hand shops, the concept gradually took shape, including a meeting room inspired by a well-known chalet in the region. The design was so recognisable that even the architect of the original chalet, whose office is located in the same building, immediately spotted the similarities.

In Neuchâtel, Wincasa moved into a historic building dating back to the 1860s. The challenge was to sensitively integrate the modern workplace concept into the existing structure. Distinctive features from the building's former use as a bank, including an oval wooden meeting room and a striking exposed wall made of yellow limestone, were deliberately preserved and incorporated into the design. Carefully selected colours and materials inspired by mid-century style created a harmonious balance between past and present.

More than construction projects: spaces for collaboration and development
For the project team, every single location was a highlight. Across all regions, new working environments were created to meet the needs of our employees, tenants and clients – functional, welcoming spaces that foster a strong sense of identity. "Every refurbishment was much more than a construction project. We created spaces that encourage collaboration, strengthen identity and bring our vision of modern working environments to life. Driving this development forward together with our partners was particularly rewarding," says Samanta Lüscher, Facility Management Project Manager at Wincasa and jointly responsible for implementing the construction projects. Simone Morant, who worked alongside her on all the projects, adds: “The new locations demonstrate just how closely the working environment and corporate culture are connected. Through our walk-in concepts and deliberately welcoming, lounge-style meeting areas, we create spaces that foster closer relationships – both with our clients and within our teams. This shapes the way we work together and makes our company's development tangible in everyday working life.” With the completion of the construction work associated with TOM, Wincasa has established an important foundation for its continued development, creating workplaces that make the company's transformation visible and tangible in the physical environment.