POP Pankki

Process

Acoustic privacy for video meetings 

The administrative floors of POP Pankki required a solution to support online meetings and focused individual work. Taiga’s soundproof workspaces in various sizes provided a flexible way to divide the open space into quieter work zones. Today, all client online calls are made inside Taiga pods, as they ensure privacy and acoustic comfort — a crucial requirement in the banking sector, both for employees and customers. 

“We knew from the start that we didn’t want to build fixed walls or open-plan spaces. Taiga’s pods gave us a flexible way to divide the floor while still keeping the environment open and light.” 

-Tiina Ruotsi, Interior Designer 

Local roots shaped the design choices 

The interiors were created by Tiina Ruotsi Interior Design, with Tiina Ruotsi and Mervi Halonen leading the project. The design vision emphasized using local partners and materials throughout the project. Taiga, born in Kuopio and operating in the region, was a natural fit. 

Yet the space itself posed installation challenges: a low ceiling and technical limitations meant that several pods had to be repositioned during setup. Electrical units were also relocated from their standard positions. A unique customization was made to one of the Lohko Box 5 pods, which now features a window on a solid wall — a solution that brings natural light into the pod and improves the overall comfort of the space. 

 To further strengthen POP Pankki’s local identity, custom acoustic panels were used in place of Taiga’s standard fabrics. Featuring different printed forest landscapes, these panels create a more personal and visually rich background for video meetings. 

“The nature imagery replaces the usual digital backdrop. It’s real, approachable, and helps create a calm visual presence in virtual meetings.” 

– Tiina Ruotsi, Interior Designer 

The outcome

Everyday comfort, right in the city center 

Since moving in, Taiga pods have become a natural part of daily work. They are used constantly for focused tasks and client meetings. Employees and visitors alike describe the spaces as calm and comfortable. The renovation has not only improved acoustics but also made better use of space. 

“The spaces work really well — and they’re right next to Kuopio’s market square. You couldn’t ask for a more central location.”

– Mari Tuovinen, Director of Customer Experience, POP Pankki