Introduction: Urban Redevelopment in Helsinki
In Helsinki, Finland, the City is revitalizing former harbor areas for residential purposes. Among these areas is the 100-hectare cargo port and dockyard in Jätkäsaari, adjacent to the city center. The redevelopment aims to accommodate 21,000 residents and provide workplaces for 6,000 individuals. Given the cost constraints of underground parking and the city’s goal to minimize street-side parking, Helsinki has commissioned architecturally ambitious above-ground parking structures to meet the neighborhood’s residential parking needs.
Design Concept: Saukonlaituri Parking Facility
Designed by ALA Architects, the Saukonlaituri parking facility is a five-cornered, five-story structure with parking for 600 cars arranged around a landscaped central courtyard. The courtyard serves a dual purpose, acting as a light well to illuminate the lower parking levels and as a stormwater retainer and snow deposit. The building’s southern side retreats from the entrance square, extending the public space into a terraced park that spans from ground level to the roof. Residents access their vehicles by traversing the terraces, offering a unique experience while promoting outdoor activities like picnics and sunbathing.
Structural Design and Aesthetic Integration
Constructed with cast-in-situ concrete, the parking facility features prefabricated facades made of large hollow terracotta profiles within galvanized steel frames. The natural tones of the terracotta complement the surrounding brick buildings, while the sandy color scheme and dune-like terraces pay homage to the nearby island of Saukko. Despite its substantial size, the terraced design visually reduces the facility’s perceived scale, blending harmoniously with its surroundings.
Functional Features and Community Integration
Beyond providing parking spaces and electric vehicle charging stations, the Saukonlaituri facility accommodates maintenance depots for private companies and the Helsinki City Housing Company HEKA. This multifunctional approach aligns with the project’s goal of integrating parking infrastructure with community services. Additionally, ALA Architects is concurrently developing the Melkinlaituri parking facility, further enhancing the neighborhood’s accessibility and functionality.
Conclusion: A Model for Sustainable Urban Development
The Saukonlaituri Parking Facility exemplifies Helsinki’s commitment to sustainable urban development and innovative design solutions. By creatively addressing parking needs while prioritizing community engagement and environmental considerations, the project sets a precedent for future urban redevelopment initiatives. As Helsinki continues to evolve, projects like Saukonlaituri play a vital role in shaping vibrant, livable neighborhoods for generations to come.
