E UR D T C AN lT TE L ia I c H FIN e C Sp — AR C GN I RD ESI O N DD AN e:
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Konkret’s office is situated in Hattutehdas, which is one of its own projects. The generous ceiling height enabled creative and versatile solutions. Photo: Kuvio Oy
Conversions give buildings a second life Helsinki-based architect firm Konkret specialises in residential construction projects and conversions, which are about not just updating the building, but actually giving an old building a new purpose. They often participate already during the concept phase, when they look for a new use for the building together with the owner. By Mari Koskinen | Photos: Konkret
Family-owned Konkret was founded in 1997 by Jaakob Solla and his partner Anne Routaniemi. Combining Solla’s architectural vision and technical know-how with Routaniemi’s expertise in materials and colours, they have created a company with an impeccable track record. High-profile projects such as the first Louis Vuitton boutique in Helsinki and Artek’s flagship shop are among the many success stories in Konkret’s portfolio. 124 | Issue 129 | October 2019
Today, their 20-member professional team works with numerous different projects, and their method of advanced building information modelling helps to ensure predictable costs, high quality, and on-time delivery. It also allows the architect and the engineering consultants to participate in the design process on a real-time, multidisciplinary basis. “We have used this method for nearly ten years now; the traditional 2D draw-
ings are replaced by intelligent, digital 3D models,” Solla explains.
Clever conversions “There is a lot of empty industrial and office space in the capital area, which is not suitable for modern adjustable office use in its current condition,” says Solla. The real-estate companies see it as a challenge that they have vacant property in highly valued districts, and it is an unbearable situation for them. “Together with the owner of the building, we search for a new use for the building,” Solla continues, adding that city planning and zoning is a slow process that not always moves as quickly as the demand in the market would require. “I see many opportunities in hybrid build-