Guggenheim Helsinki proposal | Aworks

An extraordinary and bright project naturally fits into the construction area which is situated in the South Port area nearby Olympiaterminaali in Helsinki. The construction area is surrounded by the sea and park zone and is located near the city center. Taking that to consideration, our goal was to fit the building into the environment and surroundings, and also to make it visually attractive from any point of view since the building can be seen both from the park and the seaside.

Concept:

Visually the building reminds of a gently folded envelope, which looks hidden from sight and keeps a secret. It arouses interest and – most important – a desire to walk in and see what’s hidden inside. We were inspired by a thesis that art is like a child who needs protection and care. Art should be preserved for the future generations, and we should pass this gift undamaged – a goal for which no effort is excessive.

Design Concept:

With all the visual benefits the building fully meets tender requirements. It naturally fits into the surroundings and becomes a link between the port and park zone. The park and the museum will be integrated with a walking bridge. It reminds of a curved waveform arc. It starts in the park, goes all the way across the building and then ands at the peer on the opposite side of the museum, being both a functional and a decorative element. Besides the bridge is also an open gallery and a part of the exhibition space, attracting visitors to see the main exhibition inside. The bridge contains mountings that help arrange pieces of art in any convenient way.

The interiors are designed according to the major tender requirements. The focal point is a large exhibition space which has two zones of various illumination.  The first is brightly illuminated with daylight in daytime through large glass walls, the second – a dimmer space – requires electric lighting.

  The main part of the building contains three functional blocks. First is a semi-circular conference-hall. The second contains office, café, restaurant and staff rooms. The third block contains technical space.

We have taken to consideration the desire of Guggenheim Foundation to use wood - which is Finlad’s major natural resource - as one of the building materials. We use this wonderful natural material in all of the interiors, and it is also the major material for the building frame. As a result the building looks charming, exquisite and modern.