A half-block industrial 1930s red brick building in Vallila is a fascinating testament to the area’s history. Known as Berlin/Vallila, the property is gradually being transformed into offices, a hub for the creative industries and learning environment. The conversion project is part of a densifying Vallila, where the industrial legacy meets the present in a creative and inspiring way.
When the Academy of Fine Arts vacated half of the building, the owner wanted to modernise the building systems and transform the former industrial building into a creative hub and carbon-neutral office space. Ark-byroo has played a key role in the development of the concept, and in the implementation of sub-projects such as the conversion of the first floor into TV studios and updating the appearance of the main lobby. Ark-byroo also produced a building history survey of the building to provide input for the design.
We designed commercial TV studios, recording studios and offices for the vacant spaces, including façade alterations to the red brick facades with urban significance. The project was challenging in terms of building systems and fire safety. The primary objective was to create functional and inspiring spaces within the industrial shell.
The main lobby’s late 1990s design was updated, while improving the room acoustics and lighting. We aimed to make use of the old structures. For example, sprayed acoustic surfaces were added on top of old perforated plasterboard. The look of the bridge, was updated with new paint, railings and lighting to accentuate the structures.
