MUSEAD. Museum of Architecture and Design
Helsinki, Finland

The new Museum will serve as a catalyst for both citizens and tourists in the city of Helsinki. Due to its strategic location, it will become one of the gateways to the city, offering a warm welcome and a first encounter with the essence of Finnish culture and design. The museum’s location will make it a natural extension of its surroundings, featuring green spaces and outdoor paths that encourage seamless interaction between the interior and exterior. Its architecture, designed to harmonize with the urban and natural context, will symbolize the connection between tradition and innovation. The museum conveys the image of a public space where everyone is welcome. The permeability of the spaces connected with the pedestrian area is the foundation of the building’s design. All floors feature freely accessible areas open to citizens and visitors, allowing them to engage with the museum both inside and outside, with the option of descending from the top floor via stairs or ramps that lead directly to the plaza, enjoying the surrounding old market area.

The museum will act as a bridge between the port and Tähtitornivuori Hill, two elements that have always been closely connected both visually and emotionally. The museum’s facade reflects the modularity of nearby buildings but differentiates itself by using weathered grey wood for the upper part and deep black wood for the base. This choice highlights the bond with nature and the beauty of time passing. The “black” base represents the past that solidly supporting the future.

Thanks to its features, the new building will become a gathering place for visitors and locals alike—a place to spend time together, collaborate with artists, take part in open courses, attend events, and, of course, explore the evolution of design and architecture. The building aims to demonstrate how a contemporary structure can meet ecological standards through innovative systems, utilizing natural and recycled materials.