HUB - Helsinki University Bulletin - Helsinki at ease

Free space!

“The best and worst thing about Helsinki is the sea,” says Juhana Lahti, Head of Research at the Museum of Finnish Architecture.

Before taking up his position in June, Juhana Lahti served as an art history researcher and lecturer at the University of Helsinki.

An avid boater who loves the Baltic Sea, he explains that although the seashore is a treasure, it’s hard to extend the city limits beyond it, let alone move the shoreline.

“Helsinki is built on a narrow peninsula. That hasn’t left much room for dynamic urban life and Decadence,” says Lahti.
To his delight, many of the old harbour and industrial areas have been decommissioned in recent years. These sites are ripe for redevelopment. For instance, a cultural centre has replaced the old Suvilahti gas power plant.

“The city is not a museum. It’s meant to be lived in,” says Lahti.
Lahti is also happy that the dismantled harbour and industrial zones have provided seaside plots for new housing.

“We need nature in cities, but green areas are best zoned as parks rather than sandwiched between buildings. It’s good to have a compact city,” Lahti says.

Helsinki has a wealth of parks. They provide the setting for many festivals, recycling fairs and cultural events in the summer.

“I don’t understand people who think that urban spaces shouldn’t be used for activities. ‘It might wear down the grass,’ they say. But if there’s something in this world that’s meant for people, it’s cities.”

Decades of Finnish Architecture 1900–1980 exhibition at the Museum of Finnish Architecture, 10 June – 6 September 2009.

Juhana Lahti’s Top 5 spots in Helsinki

“Old villas, a pond and steep cliffs. There are all too few Decadent milieus like this in Helsinki.”

“Best experienced by boat. The water routes between the islands give you a new perspective on Suomenlinna.”

“Space for alternative culture and good vibes.”

“The best beach in Helsinki. Beautiful natural scenery and tranquillity” (Rantapaadentie).

“The Finnish Academy of Fine Arts, the Senate Properties and the Stakes office building designed by Heikkinen and Komonen, and the Kuudes Linja club. This city block is a fine showcase for the multilayered nature of urban spaces. The inner courtyard features a vehicle ramp whose roof is surfaced with broken glass.” (Kaikukatu 4, Lintulahdenkuja 4).

Text: Mervi Itkonen / Translation: AACNoodi oy
Photo: Wilma Hurskainen

Do you crave for meeting researchers at regular intervals?

Tips for city strollers, proven facts and stories about science. And it’s all for free. Flip or subscribe HUB, the international science magazine of the University of Helsinki.

Comment *