A New Anchor for Maritime Helsinki

The new Museum of Architecture and Design will become an integral part of Helsinki’s evolving city centre. In the 2030s the focus of the city centre will shift towards the waterfront as shoreline areas are opened for residents and visitors alike.

Located in Makasiiniranta area, the museum will form part of a continuous waterfront route encircling the southern part of the city. The adjacent Saaret complex, which comprises four distinct buildings, will further enrich the area. Together, they will create a place where people will come to enjoy spending time and connect with others

Follow the Development (in Finnish)

Development of Makasiiniranta and Olympia Terminal

2021
Planning begins for the development of Makasiiniranta and the Olympia Terminal area. The Finnish Government and the City of Helsinki launch a joint project to establish Finland’s new national Museum of Architecture and Design.

2021–2022
International quality and concept competition for Makasiiniranta. The Saaret proposal is selected as the City’s development partner for the Makasiiniranta and Olympia Terminal waterfront area.

2024–2025
International design competition for the Museum of Architecture and Design. The competition is won by JKMM Architects with their proposal Kumma.

2026
The Helsinki City Council decides on the Detailed Plan for the Makasiiniranta area. Read more.

2027
Street construction and enabling works related to the Saaret proposal and the new Museum of Architecture and Design begin at Makasiiniranta.

2030
The new Museum of Architecture and Design opens its doors. The first phase of the Saaret development is completed.

Illustrative aerial view of Helsinki’s South Harbour. Visualisation: JKMM Architects.

The new Museum of Architecture and Design will be built at Makasiiniranta in Helsinki’s South Harbour. The museum as seen from Market Square. Visualisation: JKMM Architects / MIR

The Saaret project, selected as the winner of the area’s quality and concept competition, together with the new Museum of Architecture and Design, will become part of this iconic waterfront and the southern waterfront route. Visualisation: NIam, K2S, White Architects

Real Estate Company Kiinteistö Oy ADM Ltd, jointly owned by the Finnish Government and the City of Helsinki, is responsible for developing the new museum building. The Foundation for the Finnish Museum of Architecture and Design is responsible for establishing the new museum and for fundraising for the project.