Lahti City Hall
We protected two different eras of the building’s history: the original shape and architecture designed by Eliel Saarinen and completed in 1912, and Antti Nurmesniemi’s interior design from the 1980s renovation. We restored and modernized the spaces from both 1912 and 1985, including the original furniture and lighting. In the technical renovation project, the building services were completely renewed, and spatial solutions were modified to meet current needs. Damages to the protected facades were repaired, deteriorated mortar joints and masonry were renewed, and windows were refurbished. The courtyard was covered, transforming it into a warm gathering space for city residents.
Requirements for sustainable development, health and safety often lead to substantial construction measures, even in protected sites. In Finland’s northern conditions, the requirements for heating, cooling and ventilation are high. The city hall’s technology was at the end of its lifecycle, and all of the technical systems had to be renewed, which is one of the most challenging tasks in planning, especially for a protected building.
Requirements for sustainable development, health and safety often lead to substantial construction measures, even in protected sites. In Finland’s northern conditions, the requirements for heating, cooling and ventilation are high. The city hall’s technology was at the end of its lifecycle, and all of the technical systems had to be renewed, which is one of the most challenging tasks in planning, especially for a protected building.
