AOR Architects Designs Community Centre Inspired by Harbour Warehouses in Helsinki
Talas Community Centre draws inspiration from traditional Finnish coastal shelters.
1Design Inspired by Harbour Warehouses
AOR Architects designed the Talas Community Centre in Helsinki's Kalasatama district. The centre draws inspiration from traditional Finnish coastal shelters and harbour warehouses, using timber and corrugated metal materials. Spanning 1,200 square metres, the structure serves as a 'shared living room' for the area's new residents.
2Multi-Purpose Spaces
The Talas Community Centre offers multi-purpose spaces, including a restaurant, sauna, event, and work areas. The building's form resembles the harbour warehouses that once stood on the site. Constructed with glulam columns and cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels, the structure is topped with a large corrugated metal roof.
3Open and Inviting Space
The centre is organised around a double-height atrium and features an almost entirely glazed exterior. This design makes the space open and inviting. At either end of the atrium are double-height communal spaces overlooking the waterfront. In these areas, the timber structure is left exposed, with large windows framed by timber beams.
4Acoustic and Aesthetic Details
Inside the Talas Community Centre, timber panels are used, and triangular cut-outs are added to the upper sections for acoustic control. These details serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. Additionally, corridors are clad in contrasting black timber, leading to toilets and more enclosed work and meeting spaces.
5Sustainable Material Use
The project prioritised bolted connections to allow timber components to be easily replaced or repurposed in the future. The wooden core is protected from the harsh maritime climate with durable steel cladding and deep eaves. These details enhance the building's sustainability.
6A Community Gathering Point
The Talas Community Centre aims to be a gathering point for Helsinki's new residents. Its design offers shelter from both the hustle and bustle of urban life and the harsh maritime climate. These features will play a significant role in the area's social life.
7Helsinki's Transformation
Kalasatama, a former commercial port, is one of Helsinki's transforming districts. The Talas Community Centre was designed as part of this transformation, offering modern living spaces to the area's new residents. This project contributes to Helsinki's urban development.
8Architectural and Social Impact
The Talas Community Centre is one of the first community centres built this way in Finland. Its design aims to create a significant impact both architecturally and socially. This project adds a new dimension to Helsinki's architectural identity.