architecture & Design museum

competition . 2024

helsinki . finland

the city of helsinki together with the country of finland intend to establish a new architecture & design museum at the capital’s historic harbour, offering multiple activities and attracting people from all walks of life. 

aa&a’s proposal with its meandering glass façade, appearing to be moved by wind and waves, inspired by the late alvar a alto’s signature vase, turns the museum into a showcase for the strolling citizens and tourists approaching by ship from the baltic sea. it opens the museum visitors an astonishing view over the harbour and the old town while enjoying events and workshops, interactive exhibitions or just a drink.

in and out create a symbiotic dialogue. the legendary achievements of the country’s architects and designers resonate with the outside world and the future of the field is explored in a stimulating, participatory and multi-disciplinary fashion.

concept

Metamorphosis

With the adaption of form, scale and function, the late Alvar Aalto’s signature vase transforms from a design object to architecture, connecting history with the future of the fields it will host and shape for decades to come.

Light House

Like a light house, the museum manifests its presence calmly, softly yet confidently far beyond its walls.  It allows for visitors in all areas a sequence of the view to the harbour and its urban envelope.

Showcase

the vessel connects inside with outside, and outside with inside. Its exhibits and activities are seen from afar, creating curiosity and arousing personal interest.  In this, people from all walks of life are naturally drawn to the Museum.

Form

The meandering glass façade appears to be moved by wind and waves. It creates a memorable solitaire that marks its relevance to the public, yet integrating carefully and respectfully into the urban context. Its indents lead visitors to the two main entrances while its bulges provide fascinating view pulpits. 

Organisation

 The building is composed of two main spaces.  The inner core serves as vertical access, providing glimpses into various activities, capped by a shallow pool which filters dynamic daylight into the depth of this shaft.  The outer layer houses the Museum’s activities and services in a highly flexible manner.

Structure 

Hollow slabs made of laminated, local timber rest on the inner core and a row of slim, laminated timber columns dances along the glazing. The cavities of the slabs are utilized for supply of the conditioned air and its return.

Sustainability

A highly thermally insulated envelope, the use of geothermal heat and cooling with controlled ventilation, in combination with intensive passive solar heating keeps the use of renewably produced electricity to a minimum. Natural light is regulated with large curtains bringing softness, colour and regulates the acoustics.  An integral green roof and the use of engineered timber construction showcases a respectful engagement with nature.