EDUCATION & TIMBER CONSTRUCTION
in Helsinki
The Finnish design tradition is strong, both historically and today. Alvar Aalto has had a significant influence through an impressive number of public buildings, from university buildings to churches, concert halls, commercial buildings and more. In recent years, many Finnish architectural firms have embraced the use of timber, working with hybrid forms, conventional timber and cross-laminated timber (CLT). Stora Enso, Finland’s largest timber producer, has also built its headquarters in central Helsinki. Experience all this through a study programme with ArkiTours.
POSSIBLE PROGRAM
Timber construction
Helsinki is at the centre of a new era in timber construction. From saunas to cultural buildings and commercial developments, the city shows how timber can be used as a modern, sustainable material.
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Stora Enso’s headquarters: This iconic building, centrally located in Helsinki, demonstrates the potential of hybrid timber and cross-laminated timber (CLT). Designed by Anttinen Oiva Arkkitehdit Oy, it is an excellent example of how timber can be used at scale. The engineers are SWECO Rakennetekniikka Oy.
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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 sweeping timber façades with flexible learning and community spaces. The engineers are Ramboll Finland.
How can timber construction shape the cities of the future? Helsinki offers an answer through a combination of aesthetics and functionality.
Transformation and renovation
In Helsinki, the transformation of existing buildings is a central strategy for sustainable development. From industrial harbours to cultural powerhouses, the city is constantly reinventing itself.
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Dance House Helsinki: This transformation of a former cable factory into a modern cultural centre, designed by JKMM and ILO Architects, highlights how architecture can be adapted to new purposes. With a focus on dance and circus, the building creates a space for both art and community.
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Jätkäsaari and Smart Kalasatama: Former industrial harbours are being transformed into modern residential and commercial districts. The projects integrate smart technologies and green solutions to improve quality of life and reduce resource consumption.
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
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Aalto University, with its masterplan by Alvar Aalto as well as auditoriums, library and other facilities, has set a high standard for learning environments. More recent architectural studios have also further developed faculty buildings, while Aalto’s own buildings have been carefully modernised so that the environments meet contemporary requirements for administration, shared spaces and other functions.
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Finland is known for its high scores in PISA studies, meaning that children generally develop skills at a high level. There is a strong tradition of investing in high-quality school environments, from experimental learning spaces to a new academic institution located in a transformed former industrial building. The city’s new library also prioritises creative development: anyone can walk in from the street and produce music in sound studios, record podcasts and more.
INTERESTED IN A PROGRAM
Practical Information
A package may include:
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Flights and hotel accommodation through a travel agency we collaborate with
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A programme with in-depth project visits, including presentations and dialogue with local professionals, such as developers, timber producers, architectural studios, project managers, landscape architects, energy specialists, resident group representatives and others
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Local urban development guides who place the projects and urban districts in context, from their historical background to current trends
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Organisation of cycling tours, walking tours, lunches, dinners and other practical arrangements
Helsinki can be advantageously combined with an additional 1–2 days to explore the areas around Turku to the west and Jyväskylä to the north. For more information and details about the programme, contact us here.