Helsinki Museum of Architecture and Design

Finansiering sikret for museum

The Helsinki Museum of Architecture and Design is a new cultural institution planned to be built in the Søndre havn area, a key urban development zone in Helsinki designed to promote pedestrian-friendly public spaces. The Finnish government, the city council of Helsinki, and private donors have collectively secured approximately 1.7 billion Norwegian kroner in funding for this major project. The museum aims to enhance Helsinki's global cultural profile while serving as a sustainable architectural landmark integrated into the historical harbor district.

Internasjonal designkonkurranse avsluttet

An extensive international design competition was launched to select the architectural proposal for the museum. The competition attracted 623 submissions from architectural firms worldwide, demonstrating the project's significance at both national and international levels. The competition was conducted in two stages, with the first stage opening in April 2024 and the final winner announced in September 2025. Selected finalists received compensation for their proposals, with a total prize fund of 150,000 euros awarded to top entrants. Notably, the jury included prominent Nordic architects such as Norwegian professor Beate Hølmebakk.

JKMM vant med bærekraftig design

JKMM Architects won the competition with their concept named 'Kumma.' Their design emphasizes sustainability, incorporating recycled brick for the façade to create a warm and sculptural architectural expression. The museum will feature a terrace that strengthens the connection between the building and the city, complementing the harbor views while integrating harmoniously into the urban fabric. Accessibility and climate-friendly solutions are key aspects of the design, aiming to establish the museum as a monumental landmark and a driver of sustainable architecture in Helsinki.

Kulturelt knutepunkt med erfarent team

The museum is planned to be a vibrant cultural hub, fostering creativity, engagement, and reflection for both residents and visitors. The project is seen as a milestone that builds on years of planning and funding efforts to create a new cultural meeting place that enriches Helsinki’s cultural landscape. JKMM Architects bring relevant experience from other major Nordic cultural projects, such as their planned expansion of the Lillehammer art museum in collaboration with MDH Architects from Norway, underlining their capability to deliver a project of this scale and significance.

Byggestart planlagt innen 2030

The construction timeline anticipates completion by 2030 following the finalization of design and planning stages. With approvals and detailed design development ongoing post-competition, the project is progressing steadily toward realization. The museum’s sustainable focus covers both design and materials, aligning with Helsinki’s broader goals for environmentally responsible urban development. The ambitious yet carefully phased approach aims to minimize risks by involving experienced stakeholders, securing robust funding, and emphasizing compliance with sustainability standards throughout the project lifecycle.