We collaborated with Lukkaroinen, Pontek and Finnmap Infra to preserve the bulk of the original construction while integrating new extensions with the existing school building and Merirasti Chapel. The multipurpose building accommodates a school, daycare centre, play area, youth centre and auxiliary home care facilities, prioritizing circular economy principles, adaptability and community engagement. The existing chapel and youth centre serve as a historical landmark and recognizable gateway to the block, which faces the evolving Meri-Rastila Square. Between the preserved buildings, the new Cultural Square offers a vibrant communal focal point for the neighbourhood.
The City of Helsinki held the design competition for the Meri-Rastila Multipurpose Centre in 2024 to update the original Meri-Rastila school and chapel quarter designed by Kaarlo Leppänen in 1993. The competition sought an expanded, community-oriented neighbourhood centre located in a rapidly developing area with significant additional construction planned. The competition jury awarded our proposal second prize for its thoughtful approach to harmonizing the new with the old.