Arkkitehdit NRT's restoration of Alvar Aalto's Helsinki landmark, Finlandia Hall, combines architectural heritage with new public spaces, providing a revitalized venue for events, dining and design.
Finnish studio Arkkitehdit NRT has completed a major renovation of Finlandia Hall, Alvar Aalto's legendary concert hall on the shores of Töölönlahti Bay in Helsinki. After three years of construction, the building reopened on January 4, 2025, offering expanded facilities and a new purpose as a destination for residents and visitors.
Finlandia Hall, first completed in 1971, was originally designed as a venue for concerts, congresses and cultural events. The recent renovation updates its functionality while respecting the spirit of Aalto's original vision. Led by Helsinki-based Arkkitehdit NRT, the project included extensive upgrades to the building's interiors and facades to ensure compatibility with contemporary technology while maintaining the integrity of Aalto's design language. New interventions, such as the addition of public terraces, a bistro and a café and wine bar, have been carefully integrated to enhance the user experience without compromising the architectural character.
The new Finlandia “Cafe&Wine” looks out onto the landscape beyond.
One of the key aspects of the renovation was restoring Finlandia Hall's white marble cladding, which had suffered from the weather over the decades. Aalto's interiors, characterized by their elaborate details and use of natural materials, have also been carefully preserved and restored where necessary.
Finlandia Bistro, the building's first a la carte restaurant, is inspired by Aalto's love of Italy and features a menu and material palette that reflect his admiration for Mediterranean culture. Here, the furniture comes from Artek and underlines the modern mid-century character of the room, while large windows frame the view of Töölönlahti Bay.
Next to the bistro, a wine café serves seasonal pastries and carefully selected wines and invites visitors to linger on the newly opened terrace – a first for the building – and enjoy the views of downtown Helsinki.
A design shop that celebrates Finnish craftsmanship also contributes to the hall's appeal. The store stocks local brand items and iconic Aalto designs and serves as a destination for lovers of Finnish design and architecture. Beyond retail, Finlandia Hall introduces a unique accommodation offering: two apartments originally designed by Aalto to house employees have been restored and made available for overnight stays. Decorated with mid-century art, these rooms offer a rare opportunity to experience such Finnish design in person.
Decorated with modern art and mid-century furniture, the apartments have been restored and can be booked by tourists for overnight stays.
A highlight of the restoration is the Finlandia Experience Exhibition, scheduled to open in June 2025. This permanent installation will explore the creative legacy of Alvar, Aino and Elissa Aalto, exploring their architectural innovations and lasting influence on modern design. The immersive exhibition will serve as an educational resource and cultural attraction, further cementing Finlandia Hall's status as a cornerstone of Helsinki's cultural landscape.
In the restored Finlandia Hall.
By doubling visitor capacity to 400,000 per year, the renovated Finlandia Hall aims to establish itself as a vibrant public space. During the renovation, attention was also paid to the functionality of the hall as an event location. Modern technology and improved acoustics ensure that Finlandia Hall continues to accommodate a wide range of events, from intimate gatherings to large conventions and concerts. Flexible spaces and updated facilities meet modern needs while maintaining the versatility that has long defined the building's operation.
