Study Tour in Helsinki: timber construction and transformation

The Finnish design tradition is strong, both historically and today. Alvar Aalto has had a significant influence with an impressive portfolio of public buildings, from university structures to churches, concert halls, commercial buildings, and more.
In recent years, many Finnish architecture firms have embraced the use of timber, employing hybrid forms, conventional timber, and cross-laminated timber (CLT). Stora Enso, Finland's largest timber producer, has also established its headquarters in central Helsinki. Experience all this on a study program with ArkiTours.

 

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A study program in Helsinki can focus on one of the following themes:

 

Timber construction

Helsinki is at the forefront of a new era in timber construction. From saunas to cultural centers and commercial buildings, the city showcases how timber can be used as a modern, sustainable material.

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• Stora Enso’s Headquarters: Centrally located in Helsinki, this iconic building demonstrates the potential of hybrid timber and CLT. Designed by Anttinen Oiva Arkkitehdit Oy, it is an outstanding example of large-scale timber use, with engineering by SWECO Rakennetekniikka Oy.

• Oodi Helsinki Central Library: This award-winning library in Helsinki is a tribute to modern timber architecture and public innovation. Designed by ALA Architects, the building combines flowing wooden facades with flexible learning and community spaces. The engineering is by Ramboll Finland. 

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How can timber construction shape the cities of the future? Helsinki provides the answer through a blend of aesthetics and functionality.

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Transformation and renovation

In Helsinki, transforming existing buildings is a key strategy for sustainable development. From industrial harbors to cultural hubs, the city continuously reinvents itself.

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• Dance House Helsinki: This transformation of a former cable factory into a modern cultural center, designed by JKMM and ILO Architects, highlights how architecture can be adapted for new purposes. Focused on dance and circus, the building creates a space for both art and community.

• Jätkäsaari and Smart Kalasatama: Former industrial harbors are being transformed into modern residential and commercial areas. These projects integrate smart technologies and green solutions to enhance quality of life while reducing resource consumption.

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What can we learn from the transformation of these areas? Helsinki offers a glimpse into the future of urban development, where sustainability and community are central elements.

 

Schools and Universities

• Aalto University, with its master plan designed by Alvar Aalto, has set a high standard for learning environments, featuring auditoriums, a library, and more. Newer architecture firms have further developed faculty buildings, while Aalto’s original structures have been carefully modernized to meet today’s requirements for administration, common areas, and more.

• Finland is known for its high rankings in PISA assessments, meaning children generally develop skills at an advanced level. There is a strong tradition of investing in high-quality school environments, from experimental learning spaces to a new academic institution located within a transformed former industrial site. The city’s new library also prioritizes creative development—anyone can freely enter from the street and produce music in sound studios, record podcasts, and more.

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​Would one of these themes be relevant for your company? Contact us here.

 

 

Practical Information

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• Flight + hotel (arranged through a travel agency we collaborate with)

• In-depth program featuring project visits, presentations, and discussions with local professionals, such as developers, timber producers, architecture firms, project managers, landscape architects, energy specialists, resident group representatives, and more.

• Local urban development guides provide historical context and insights into current trends related to the projects and city areas.

• Organization of activities such as cycling tours, walking tours, lunches, dinners, and more.

 

Helsinki can also be combined with an additional 1-2 days to explore the surrounding areas, such as Turku to the west and Jyväskylä to the north. For more information and details about the program, contact us here.