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A cleverly renewed restaurant

Ilmalanlinna restaurant (A building)

Location: Helsinki
Completion year: 2024
Area: 700 m²
Client: Macquarie Asset Management

Photos: Martin Sommerschield, Kuvio

Ilmalinna is an impressive complex of five office buildings in Ilmala, Helsinki. The first three buildings, also designed by Olla, were completed in 2015, with the extension of two additional buildings finalized in 2023.

After the extension, the restaurant in Building A – originally opened in 2015 – also received a facelift. In its initial state, the restaurant reflected the aesthetics of its time: more canteen-like than restaurant-like, bright and slightly clinical. The color palette was dominated by white, lime green, and chrome grey. The aim of the renovation was to create a warmer, more atmospheric space that would resonate with the character of the new buildings D and E.

The refurbishment emphasized sustainability, making clever use of existing structures while avoiding unnecessary demolition. The original floor was kept, with new furniture zones added on top. Existing wall surfaces were reused as much as possible, while the color scheme was updated through repainting.

Warm wood tones were introduced into the material palette, and the hall-like impression of the dining area was softened with varied seating groups, booths, partitions, and greenery.

Some of the existing tables and chairs were kept, while others were customized: for example, some tables received new tops. The serving line’s structure and equipment were preserved, but the line itself was newly clad. The suspended ceiling was left untouched, though fluorescent lighting was replaced with LEDs, and the desired atmosphere was further enhanced with additional decorative lighting.

With insightful and resource-efficient design, the project not only transformed the atmosphere but also delivered significant functional improvements that increased the restaurant’s appeal and its capacity to serve a growing user base. Self-service checkouts were added, a burger station was introduced in the kitchen, and a new outdoor entrance with a terrace was created. The end result is an inviting restaurant space that also provides an atmospheric setting for evening events.