Helsinki offers a variety of interesting developments and themes to explore, both in new and old architecture, as well as sustainable solutions and innovative housing and urban planning.
In the city centre, we take you on a tour of Finnish architecture from 19th century to present day. You will see Alvar Aalto’s world-renowned modernist buildings, as well as gems of Jugendstil/Art Nouveau architecture. You will also take a look at the most recent Finnish architecture, such as the wooden Kamppi Chapel of Silence, Helsinki University campus library Kaisa, the Think Corner open space, as well as the lobby and courtyard of the new underground Amos Rex Museum, to name a few. You will hear about the Töölö Bay masterplan, admire the Finlandia Hall exterior, take a walk through the Music Centre and of course visit inside the new central library Oodi, awarded the 2019 Public Library of the Year.
In Otaniemi, the Aalto University Campus offers classic architectural gems such as Dipoli, Otaniemi Chapel and the Aalto Undergraduate Centre, combined with new projects such as the Väre building, home to the Aalto School of Arts, Design and Architecture, and the award-winning Harald Herlin Learning Centre. The area creates an exciting hub of education, working and living with an international community, providing an easy 10-minute commute to the city centre with the new West Metro and its new stations.
Helsinki is constantly developing new areas around its centre. Jätkäsaari has become an area of innovative housing solutions and international travel with its new ferry terminal. Similarly, on the other side of town, the area of Kalasatama is being built along the coast, providing great traffic connections and commercial facilities, while still feeling like a cozy neighbourhood with its townhouses. Up and coming is also the large area of Laajasalo, combining living, the sea and nature, which will next be connected to the centre by easy access over Crown Bridges, due to be completed in 2026.
Sustainability can be seen in the Finnish architectural scene most visibly in the use of wood, that can be found in various areas of the city, in many different uses. Some of the most interesting projects include Wood City in Jätkäsaari, the wooden housing and architecture of Viikki and upcoming neighbourhoods of Honkasuo and Kuninkaantammi, and the award-winning public sauna Löyly.
Helsinki offers an endless list of fascinating projects to explore. Contact us, and we will plan a tour tailored for your group.