Spanning 97,000 square metres and housing over 6,000 employees, the SEB building in Arenastaden is more than just one of Sweden’s largest offices – it is a vibrant district in its own right. For Mikael Helsing, Head of Group Real Estate at SEB, the building is the result of a deep strategic partnership and a firm belief in the area's future.

When SEB moved into its new premises during 2017 and 2018, it marked one of the largest office relocations ever undertaken in Sweden. Today, visitors to Arenastaden are met by three sharp, crystalline glass buildings that together form a landmark for the area.

"We view this as more than just an office; it is a strategic hub for our operations. The attractiveness of the area, the wide range of amenities, and the central location make it a place where our employees truly thrive," says Mikael Helsing.

A Pulse Driving Confidence in the Future

Mikael describes the atmosphere in Arenastaden as lively and in constant motion. The proximity to the Strawberry Arena and Westfield Mall of Scandinavia creates a dynamic environment where thousands of people move daily, giving the area a unique energy.

"There is a tangible aura of future-optimism here. The area continues to grow, new neighbours are moving in, and even when companies undergo changes, most choose to stay. With the upcoming underground line, accessibility will improve even further, strengthening Arenastaden’s role as an extension of the city centre," Mikael explains.

Building Culture Through Architecture

Inside the award-winning premises – voted "Sweden’s Best-Looking Office" upon its completion in 2017 – the focus is on interaction. The three buildings are interconnected by walkways and atriums that encourage spontaneous conversations between the bank’s various departments. With its own restaurants, cafés, gyms, and even rooftop parks where staff can walk between the buildings, SEB has created its own ecosystem.

"We have 6,200 people working here, which is essentially a cross-section of society. We utilise every part of Arenastaden, as well as everything we offer within our own office. From local running routes to lunches in-house where we build our internal culture – there is a significant advantage to having everything gathered in this way."

A Strategic Partnership with Fabege

For SEB, the choice of Fabege as a landlord is more than a traditional rental agreement. Mikael emphasises the importance of personal commitment and a shared vision for the area.

"This is a strategically important investment for us, and it is clear that Fabege takes it very seriously. We experience a high level of engagement all the way up to their senior management. Fabege is an owner that does not just manage property, but actively works to develop the entire district. This provides a sense of security and a continued belief that Arenastaden is the right place for us," Mikael Helsing concludes.