Käännös, ALA Architect’s winning submission for the Helsinki Central Library competition, is set to open in 2018. The new public building comprises mainly of public spaces and, as the competition name implies, will be located at the heart of Helsinki. Its design is made up of three levels with each serving a very specific function: ground floor as active, upper level as quiet and reserved, and mid-level to house the specific, private functions. The library hopes to bring together the diverse population of Helsinki into one area since it will be accommodating to the working class, families, and students alike.
Courtesy of ALA Architects
A large public plaza spans in front of the new library and merges into the first floor of the structure with its restaurant and cinema. This open area will be flexible to absorb any function that is needed of it for the public. The welcoming entry is complemented by a large spiraled double-helix staircase that circulates upwards into the main library or third level. It’s here where the applied function lies with an impressive collection of books and an unobstructed view of the city of Helsinki.
Courtesy of ALA Architects
The mid-level houses the multimedia space and a public sauna. The soft curved wooden façade provides an overhang for the ground level plaza to become both functional and expressive of the architect and city. Local materials are used throughout the entire building to help it stay efficient: timber and Siberian Larch wood. Analysis of the façade performance helps the structure to reduce the amount of systems needed to keep the building functional.
Project info:
Architects: ALA Architects
Country: Finland, Helsinki
Year: 2013
Photographs: Courtesy of ALA Architects
consult: ARUP
Other: Proudmodel Oy
artist: Vizarch.cz
Anastasia Andreieva is an accomplished Architectural Projects Editor at Arch2O, bringing a unique blend of linguistic expertise and design enthusiasm to the team. Born and raised in Ukraine, she holds a Master’s degree in Languages from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. Her deep passion for architecture and visual storytelling led her to transition from translation and editorial roles into the world of design media. With a keen eye for conceptual clarity and narrative structure, Anastasia curates and presents global architectural projects with precision and flair. She is particularly drawn to parametric and digital design, cultural context, and emerging voices in architecture. When I’m not analyzing the latest architectural trends, you’ll probably find me searching for hidden gems in cityscapes or appreciating the beauty of well-crafted spaces. After all, great design—like great connections—can be found in the most unexpected places. Speaking of connections, because architecture isn’t the only thing that brings people together.