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The former factory building was turned into a modern learning environment

Konepaja high school & high school for adults

Location: Helsinki
Area: 4700 m²
Client: EQ
Completition year: 2024

Photos: Martin Sommerschield, Kuvio

Modern learning spaces were designed for Konepaja high school in Vallila, Helsinki, utilizing premises previously occupied by Helsinki Vocational College and Adult Institute. The protected red-brick building, originally constructed in 1941, was initially used for industrial purposes. Together with an extension completed in 2000, the buildings form a compact and inviting complex surrounding a light-filled courtyard.

Due to its history, the building’s interior was quite labyrinthine. During the renovation, special attention was paid to opening up sightlines and making the building easier to navigate. In stairwell lobbies, spaces were opened to provide views toward the outer walls and windows, helping users better orient themselves within the building. Wayfinding was further enhanced with signage designed to suit the character of the space. Signage aligned with the City of Helsinki’s visual identity guides users throughout the school, and customized illustrations were added to the solid doors of the central stairwell to highlight the main functions of each floor.

Compared to typical modern learning environments, the former industrial building originally had few interior glass doors and many solid ones. These doors were redesigned with custom illustrations to improve navigation and enhance the space’s atmosphere. The designs, featuring nut and gear motifs, reference the building’s industrial past. The same visual theme continues in the courtyard’s decorative walls and asphalt patterns. Together with signage following the City of Helsinki’s visual style, these graphic elements create a cohesive spatial experience

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