Finlandia Hall restored to its original splendor—now you can stay overnight and enjoy dinner in this iconic building
Finlandia Hall, one of Finland’s most iconic landmarks, has been restored to its original brilliance with a modern twist. Additional spaces within the building have also been opened for public use.
What?
Finlandia Hall, an event and congress center designed by Finnish architect Alvar Aalto.
Where?
On the shore of Töölönlahti bay in Helsinki, Finland, at Mannerheimintie 13 e.
Who?
The three-year renovation was supervised by the Finnish Heritage Agency in collaboration with the Alvar Aalto Foundation.
What is it like?
The structures and building services of the over 50-year-old hall, owned by the City of Helsinki, have been thoroughly renovated. This modernization project improved the energy efficiency of the building and emphasized ecological values. The majority of the doors and windows were restored rather than renewed, the old marble on the exterior walls is recycled, and there are now over 2,000 refurbished light fixtures in the building.
Most of the furniture, designed by Alvar Aalto, is original and has been restored with careful attention to the historical value of the pieces.
In addition to restoring the original elements, the building also offers something new to visitors: Finlandia Bistro restaurant, as well as a wine cafe with a terrace accessible to the public for the first time, where visitors can admire the view over Töölönlahti bay. Next to the cafe, there is a new design shop specializing in Finnish design.
What is special about it?
You can now also stay overnight at Finlandia Hall. Two apartments previously intended for the building’s staff have been restored and opened for accommodation. In June, a permanent exhibition focusing on the work of Alvar and Aino Aalto will open in the building.
Little Finlandia, which was built next to Töölönlahti bay and gained popularity during the renovation, will remain in use until the end of the year.
