
location
Helsinki, Finland
client
Arctia Shipping
status
Completed in 2013
building area
1,250 m2
Awards
Architizer A+ Award 2014, RIL Award 2013
Photographs
Mika Huisman
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.

The main lobby was inspired by traditional ship building methods

The main lobby desk is made of black steel. Ice breaker models are displayed around the building

The subtly decorated facade shows K2S’ preference for creating structures that correspond to the environment

The Voima ice breaker was built in 1952


A customized aluminium profile was created for the buildings, with randomized folding and texture patterns
