(case update)
The City of Helsinki has published a bold new vision for the repurposing of the Hanasaari Power Plant. Collaborating with the Uusi Kaupunki Collective, we guided a highly participatory and inclusive process to shape the future of this iconic landmark.
(STARTING POINT)
After the Hanasaari coal-fired power plant ceased operations in April 2023, the city of Helsinki set its sights on transforming the site into a space that serves the city’s evolving needs. This would require more than just a redevelopment plan—it called for a shared vision that defined the structure’s future purpose, identified its potential users and developers, and reflected how residents and users understood its role within the urban landscape.
(OUR CONTRIBUTION)
Our approach was grounded in community-driven collaboration, combining expert insight with local knowledge to guide the process from the start. Our role was to facilitate these conversations—bringing the right people together, helping them listen to one another, and finding productive ways to navigate differing perspectives.
We brought together a diverse group of stakeholders—designers, cultural leaders, city officials, event organizers, local entrepreneurs, and urban activists—in a series of workshops that encouraged cross-sector dialogue and sparked ideas for reimagining the site.
Residents from nearby neighborhoods joined open workshops to share their perspectives. Using visual tools and clear technical data, we created a setting where everyone could participate meaningfully, regardless of background.
Given the range of interests and passions the project continues to stir, we also drew on our experience in preventive crisis management. By keeping discussions open, giving space to diverse opinions, and presenting facts in a clear and respectful way, we helped prevent potential conflicts and supported a constructive, forward-focused atmosphere.
To add further depth and practical context, we conducted targeted interviews with specialists, including museum developers and retail property managers, whose insights helped shape a more grounded and viable vision.
(OUTCOMES)
- Community interaction and dialogue remained at the heart of the process, shaping both the content and direction of the work.
- A phrase—Toivon voima (The Power of Hope)—emerged during one of the workshops and was adopted as the title of the vision. It became a symbol of the collective optimism and shared purpose behind the project.
- The outcome of the process was a set of key themes to guide future property development, forming the foundation for a sustainable and inspiring transformation of Hanasaari Power Plant.
- The resulting vision report will later serve as briefing material for an upcoming design competition, helping to translate shared ideas into concrete proposals.
- Beyond the vision itself, the process strengthened the city’s relationship with its residents and stakeholders, reinforcing trust and shared ownership of the project’s future.
(IN COLLABORATION)
Project Management, Urban Planning, and Visualizations:
- Uusi Kaupunki Collective: Key experts Miia-Liina Tommila (Tommila Architects) and Niilo Ikonen (Avarrus Architects) led the overall project coordination, urban planning, and visualization efforts.
Image Credits:
- AI-generated concept visualizations by Avarrus Architects
- Photography by Niilo Ikonen and Atte Aaltonen
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