CREATING A HOME AWAY FROM HOME
When a new vessel enters service, attention often focuses on technology, operations and logistics. At Wallenius, however, another question has been just as important for generations: how can life onboard feel more like home?
When a new vessel enters service, attention often focuses on technology, operations and logistics. At Wallenius, however, another question has been just as important for generations: how can life onboard feel more like home?
That question lies at the heart of the Home Away from Home team, which is dedicated to transforming vessels into welcoming living environments for crews who spend months at sea. For those behind the work, the mission extends far beyond interior design. “We want the ships and offices within Soya Group to feel connected,” says team member Chanda Nystedt. “It’s about creating a sense of unity. We all work together.”
THE TRADITION DATES back to the 1930s, when Signe, the wife of Soya Group founder Olof Wallenius, visited a newly acquired vessel and saw many opportunities to improve life at sea. Believing that seafarers deserved safe and comfortable living environments, she laid the foundations for a tradition that would continue for generations.
IT’S ABOUT CREATING A SENSE OF UNITY. WE ALL WORK TOGETHER.
The initiative was later carried forward by Signe and Olof’s daughter, Margareta Wallenius-Kleberg, who became deeply involved in shaping the onboard environment. From selecting artwork and textiles to personally overseeing installations on every vessel, she regarded the work as a tangible expression of care for the crew. “Margareta was involved in the entire process for more than 50 years, right up until the year before she passed away,” recalls Eva Odelfelt.
FOLLOWING MARGARETA’S PASSING, the company formalised the work by creating the Home Away from Home team. It brings together expertise from across Soya Group and from the fields of art and design. The team selects artwork, lighting, textiles and decorative elements for cabins and communal spaces throughout the fleet. The Wallenius-Kleberg family continues to play an active role. Family members remain closely involved in key decisions and approve everything from materials and furnishings to the overall aesthetic, ensuring that the philosophy established generations ago lives on. “We continue the tradition, but with a modern approach. As a rule, we choose items that are Swedish, sustainable and built to last,” says Clarissa Kroon. As many items as possible are given a second life. Examples include artwork returned from retired ships, cushions made from reused fabrics and carpets made from recycled plastic bottles. One of the most rewarding aspects of the work is meeting the crews when the Home Away from Home team visits the vessels. “Those meetings between the office and the ships are incredibly important,” explains Chanda. “We have the opportunity to show our colleagues onboard how much we care, and how the Wallenius-Kleberg family values their well-being as well.”
FOR CREWS WHO spend months at sea, small details can make a significant difference. A comfortable cabin, warm lighting or an inviting atmosphere in the communal spaces can have a real impact on everyday life onboard. After completing a project, the team often receives emails from captains thanking them for their work and sharing feedback from the crew. One recent comment stands out above all others:
It feels like home now.
The Home Away from Home Team: Birgitta Löwendahl Designer and interior designer, external consultant. Eva Odelfelt VP Group Relations & Interior Design, Rederi AB Soya. Chanda Nystedt, Assistant to CEO & Management Team, Wallenius Marine AB. Clarissa Kroon Assistant to Chairman & CEO, Rederi AB Soya
Photo: Karin Röse
