Fyra Breathes New Life Into Helsinki’s Century-Old University Landmark.

It’s so satisfying to see a forgotten building find its grove again. In central Helsinki, the red-brick landmark at Eerikinkatu 32-36 has been quietly waiting for its second act after standing empty for over five years. Originally built between 1925 and 1933 as the Helsinki University of Technology and designed by architect Onni Tarjanne, Konelabra has now been transformed into multi-tenant office and showroom spaces that honour its century-long legacy.

Fyra, working as principal designer alongside ARK Helsinki and property owner Cobbleyard Real Estate, approached the 6,000-square-metre renovation with sensitivity. The building’s heritage protected status meant every decision required careful dialogue with the Helsinki City Museum and Building Authorities—a process that ultimately strengthened the design outcome.

The Hospitality & Public Spaces at Hotel Torni in Helsinki by Fyra.

If you’ve visited Helsinki, Hotel Torni might ring a bell. Established in 1931, the thirteen floor building was Finland’s first ‘skyscraper’ marking it a prominent landmark ever since.

The renovation philosophy centres on what the team calls “restorative architecture”—preserving and enhancing rather than demolishing and starting fresh. This approach becomes immediately apparent on arrival. Original floors, doors, and skirtings remain untouched, while the wall paint has been meticulously matched to the original shade and style. Perhaps most charmingly, old technical features like cranes, electrical panels, and display cabinets have been preserved as tangible reminders of the building’s educational past.

What’s particularly clever about Fyra’s intervention is how new elements clearly mark the building’s evolving timeline without competing with the original architecture. New staircases and window openings complement rather than clash, while the design balances the industrial clarity of Tarjanne’s vision with warmer timber elements that make the spaces welcoming.

Bardem Cocktail Bar in Helsinki by Fyra.

In the heart of Helsinki, Bardem combines old and new elements, giving the moody, illicit atmosphere of the speakeasy a playful up-to-the-minute spin.

In the former laboratory areas, the original spatial character and window views have been maintained—a decision that speaks to understanding how natural light and proportions contribute to a building’s essential character. Where new rooms and lofts have been constructed, they’ve been designed for future removal without damaging surrounding structures, showing remarkable foresight for a building that’s already proven its longevity.

The project’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond preservation. The building is pursuing BREEAM In-Use certification, with consideration given to lighting, bathroom fixtures, and energy-consuming equipment. This focus on both user well-being and environmental responsibility positions Konelabra as a model for how historic buildings can contribute to a more sustainable urban future.

Daytrip Transforms Historic London Buildings Into Cloisters Workspace.

Built around a central courtyard with a spectacular living green wall, Cloisters celebrates original features while introducing contemporary elements that enhance functionality.

[Images courtesy of Fyra. Photography by Riikka Kantinkoski.]