The Helsinki City Hall building history survey celebrated the 50th anniversary of the building designed by Aarno Ruusuvuori and provides important information for the upcoming renovation project. In 2010, Ark-byroo also carried out a comprehensive building history survey of the northern part of the City Hall district.
The Hotel Seurahuone, designed by Carl Ludwig Engel, was completed in 1833, transferred to the City of Helsinki in 1913 and has served as the City Hall since 1932. The building was modernised in the 1970s to1980s according to a winning design by architect Aarno Ruusuvuori. A new building was constructed behind the old façade and around the old ballroom.
The staircase on the ceremonial floor, which appears to be floating, has been preserved almost in its original state.
The building history survey summarises the characteristics and survival of the modern phase in particular. The remarkable modern interiors of Helsinki City Hall, with its furnishings, including the unique colours of the artist Anita Snellman, make it a key work of modern architecture appreciated by Docomomo.
