VÄKKÄRÄ

“Väkkärä” sets a compelling stage for the continuity of cutting-edge design culture in Helsinki. As one approaches the museum along the shores of the Baltic sea, the planes of the structure seemingly unfold from the sky. Arranged in spiral fashion around a triangular core, three generous roof pitches extend all the way down and act as canopies to create shaded outdoor areas at the ground floor. A play on the vernacular pitched roof, its materiality: a subtle maritime metallic, reminiscent of panels used to clad sea-borne vessels, and just polished enough to reflect the shade of the sky and water, the museum blends tonally and characteristically into its surroundings. Ambiguous, yet familiar, the iconic form captures a visitor’s curiosity, inviting them to discover its contents.

In contrast to a mysterious and sheltered exterior, a warm, wooden interior awaits. The design utilises locally sourced timber construction, choosing to expose the structure in combination with a dark wood finish. Positioned to take advantage of its unique urban condition, triangular openings along the facade afford generous views toward the water, the park and the city simultaneously.

Mindful of its location and proximity on this prominent site, the footprint remains compact, the space between the museum and its surrounding urban fabric is deliberate and allows for both appreciation of immediate context, and appreciation of the sculptural nature of the form itself. By encouraging a seamless vertical experience using feature stairs and variegated double height spaces, the museum diversifies the experience of looking outward. The City of Helsinki serves as a permanent backdrop to this new space, tying the future of the museum intrinsically to its context and culture.

DATA
Client: Finnish Museum of Architecture and Design Foundation, ADM Real Estate Company
Use: Museum
Budget: €105 million
Bldg. Area: 10,050 m²
Featured material: Steel
Status: International Design Competition

CREDITS
Architect: LUCA POIAN FORMS
Team: Luca Poian, Anoushae Eirabie
Images: BS ARQ