ALA Architects Wins Helsinki Library Design Competition

Finnish design firm ALA Architects Ltd. has won the architectural competition for Finlands Helsinki Central Library. Selected from six entries in stage two of the competition, ALAs entry, Knns, proposes a 172,000-square-foot facility consisting almost entirely of public spaces. Boasting an arching form, the design divides library functions into three distinctive levels: an active ground floor, a calm upper floor, and an enclosed space in between catering to more specific functions. The firm won 50,000 euros for its first-place finish.

The competition jury commended ALAs submission for its cityscape, functionality, and eco-sensitive design. The architecture of the proposal is of a very high quality, executed with relaxed, broad strokes, and memorable, jurors noted. The proposal provides excellent premises for the development of a completely new functional concept for the library. The building has a unique appeal and the prerequisites to become the new symbolic building which Helsinki residents, library users, as well as the staff, will readily adopt as their own.

Entrants were evaluated on criteria such as usability, sustainability, and feasibility, as well as their ability to fit into the existing urban structure. No second prize was awarded, but Playa Architects Ltd and Verstas Architects Ltd shared the third-place prize of 31,500 euros each. The jury called Playas entry, Liblab, not only distinct and sculptural but also suitable for public purposes while recognizing its "well-thought-out glass surfaces in the most important directions. Verstas submission, Kasi, was acknowledged as appealing and approachable. Jurors also praised the design for its separating walls, ceiling, and massive wooden elements.

The library is scheduled to open in 2018.

Playa Architects: Liblab

Verstas Architects: Kasi

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ALA Architects Wins Helsinki Library Design Competition