Helsinki is a unique city, where Neoclassicalbuildings encounter gridded Modernist planning. This intersection, where theold and new urban structures collide, creates the backdrop for theMakasiiniranta waterfront. This curious gradient of styles became a contextualpuzzle for us to resolve. How to create a building that becomes an iconic partof Helsinki’s waterfront yet respects its Neoclassical and Modernist neighbors?Our proposal is a gradient of history- a neighbor institution- with anarchitectural identity that mirrors and blurs the various styles to become a symbolthat is reminiscent of the city’s past and suggests an infinite extension toits future. It is a distinctive symbol of contextual layering, making newhistory for this institution.

The architecture of our museum is an embodiment oftransition, symbolizing the evolution of architecture from its Classical rootsto contemporary innovation. The park facing facade is a contemporaryinterpretation of Classical rhythms and intricate details, all cast as singularconcrete pieces, a synthesis of the adjacent Neoclassicism, fabricated withcontemporary techniques. It then gradually transitions between all recognizableforms, from abstracted pedimented windows, to distinct punched openings, to structuralpost and beam, to horizontal slab and column, all of these in direct dialoguewith the street facade adjacent.

As one enters the building, the architecturetransforms. The formal symmetry gives way to a more fluid arrangement of spacesand structure. The columns, once solid and monolithic, gradually become moreslender and dispersed, all centering on an atrium that contains a buildingwithin a building. This central pavilion, which mimics the façade to someextent with a gradient of Classical to Modern figures, happens on a condensedscale, allowing visitors to really interact with these materials and shapes. Itserves as a devise for more intimate gathering on terrace bridges that bothconnect the programmatic elements and act as spaces of contemplation. It is aspace where the boundaries between interior and exterior, structure and space,become blurred, inviting the museum activities to bleed out and engage thepanoramic vistas of Helsinki.

Through this formal and conceptual gradient, themuseum offers a variety of engaging open public programs. These areas aredesigned to be versatile and interactive, with spaces for exhibitions,workshops, performances, and casual gatherings. The architecture appears to bea simple slab building, but inside is a rich environment of double-heightspaces and openings that allow all levels of the building to interact,encouraging movement and exploration, with stairways creating moments ofdiscovery and surprise. It is ultimately a cultural institution tying its architecturalhistory and design legacy as a symbol of a bright future, a gradient fromclassical to contemporary that symbolizes the ongoing evolution of Finnishculture.

‍