Creating the ‘Anti-Office’ for Vipps
A behind-the-scenes look at the game-changing workspace design for Norway’s leading digital payment service.
“Payment made easy” is the guiding principle for Vipps, Norway’s top digital payment provider, which has reshaped how people pay since launching in May 2015. Achieving over a million users within six months, Vipps solidified its status as Norway’s most-used service after a 2018 merger with national competitors. With multiple teams uniting under one roof, Vipps saw this as a chance to build a workspace that fostered connection, communication, and seamless collaboration across teams. The result? A unique “anti-office” where employees feel at home, relaxed, and inspired.
Designing a Workspace that Inspires
To bring their vision to life, Vipps partnered with Radius Design, whose architects embraced the idea of an ‘anti-office’ from the start. “Our vision was to create an office that felt like anything but a traditional workspace,” says Einar Erdahl, Interior Architect & Project Manager at Radius Design. “We didn’t want a typical reception desk. We envisioned an inspiring mix of workspaces: spaces for focus, zones to drop in and out, playfully vibrant rooms, and straightforward minimalist areas for serious work.”
At the heart of the layout is a central social space, a focal point surrounded by dynamic work zones. These range from the vibrant ‘Hubba Bubba Room’ to the nature-inspired ‘Jungle Room’ and even a ‘Secret Room’ cleverly hidden behind a revolving wall. Each area flows into the next, allowing employees to move smoothly between activities without compromising productivity.
Furnishing for Flexibility and Comfort
While the layout embraced variety, traditional desks were still essential, and Vipps selected the HÅG SoFi mesh chairs to complete each workstation. Known for its ergonomic design, flexibility, and sleek look, the HÅG SoFi was a natural fit.
“We explored many options,” shares Narve Hansen, Chief Innovation Officer of Vipps’ International Department. “The HÅG SoFi stood out because it’s intuitive and flexible—two qualities that are critical for us. With so many team members working long hours, we needed a chair that’s both supportive and easy to use. It was the ideal choice for Vipps.”
Explore the video content on this page to hear more about the design journey, or browse our gallery at the end of the article for a closer look at the vibrant Vipps office spaces.
