Helsinki East Urban Center

Project proposal is to create the new Helsinki East Urban Centre as a green, pedestrian and bike friendly, multifunctional and accessible urban district.
The main design principles used to create center-like and recognizable character for the whole area are following:
1. New mixed function city blocks are introduced on empty plots
2. Ground floor level for the whole district is created accessible and pedestrian friendly – ground level is brought back to the people.
3. Currently disconnected districts are joined with public and urban ground level and the traffic junction is moved to the level below.
4. Buildings at the center of the district are proposed to be in timber construction to contribute Helsinki City goal to become carbon neutral as well as to create a distinct character for the whole area.
Street level, building mass and recreational/green areas are made in a similar scale and proportions to the Helsinki City center. This design principle continues Helsinki City unique character and creates a center-like feeling for habitants and visitors. Centre of the area forms a unique landmark that will create a new identity for the Helsinki East Urban Centre.

Status: International competition

Year: 2019

Client: The City of Helsinki

Place: Helsinki, Finland

Size: 52.4 ha; 364 300m2

Team: RUUME arhitekti