Helsinki is one of the most northern harbour cities. During the long winters, Arctia icebreakers keep the sea routes open from Helsinki to all coastal cities in Finland. The Arctia Headquarters are housed in a floating structure at the Merikasarmi pier in central Helsinki’s Katajanokka district, right beside the icebreakers. The design of the headquarters combines innovative techniques and traditional craftmanship – the same elements are also found in Arctia icebreakers. 

The black steel box blends in like a refined, younger sibling to the gargantuan ships. Maritime influences re-emerge inside the building, where locally-sourced, rounded wood is set against the linear, glazed entrance opening.