MER Arkitekter Leads the Way – Earns HI Label for Their Own Office

One of Sweden’s first HI-labelled workspaces is located in central Stockholm

Talking about sustainability is easy. Living by it – and measuring it – is something else entirely. MER Arkitekter is one of the first companies in Sweden to earn the HI label for their own premises. The result: an office with 88% reused furnishings, a strong focus on circularity, and a clear signal to the entire industry.

“We don’t just want to design sustainable spaces – we want to live in one ourselves. By having our office HI-labelled, we’ve received clear proof that our own ways of working hold up, and we’re now even better equipped to help our clients take the same path.” – Nicole Morel, CEO and interior architect, MER Arkitekter

From Daily Practice to Verified Performance

MER’s office in the historic Münchenbryggeriet building has long served as an internal testing ground for circular solutions. Kitchen cabinetry has been refinished instead of replaced, curtains are sewn from fabric scraps, and custom storage was built using leftover materials. The goal: to reduce climate impact by extending the life of everything from furnishings to finishes.

When the HI label was launched, MER saw an opportunity to put their sustainability efforts to the test. The label – which assesses the full interior environment, from layout to reuse – was a perfect fit for a company with high ambitions and tangible results. Their experience also demonstrates that reuse can be a creative and inspiring process, resulting in more personal and distinctive spaces.

Early Adopters – and Trained HI Coaches

MER Arkitekter is among the first to have their space HI-labelled. The review was conducted by RISE and included documentation, an on-site visit, and verification of factors such as furniture age, material origin, and long-term adaptability.

Two team members are now certified HI Coaches. Their role is to support MER’s clients throughout the HI process – offering both practical guidance and strategic input. MER sees this as a way to share knowledge, while also deepening their own commitment to sustainable interiors.

Tenants Can Lead Too

MER’s initiative shows that sustainability isn’t just the property owner’s responsibility. Tenants can make a big impact too – by preserving what already exists, making conscious choices, and planning for the long term.

The company also believes that interiors deserve a more central role in sustainability work. If Sweden is to meet its climate targets, interior design must be seen as a strategic tool – not just a matter of aesthetics.

More Than a Label

For MER, the HI label has not only been proof of their efforts – it’s also been a tool for development. The process gave them a clear structure to evaluate internal practices and strengthened conversations with both employees and clients.

It has become a means of turning abstract sustainability goals into something practical and measurable – building trust and helping to communicate their values across every project.