2022
Oulu, Finland
7 800 m²
Architecture Competition entry
Extension for Contemporary Functions
The proposal for the Oulu Museum and Science Centre provides a bold solution for extending and integrating the existing Tietomaa and Power Station buildings into a unified cultural complex. The design respects the site’s historical and urban context while introducing a distinct, contemporary architectural identity.
The extension connects directly to the old power station and water tower, both designed by Birger Federley. It consists of two overlapping cylindrical volumes that form a compact and recognizable composition. This form allows the new building to adapt sensitively to its surroundings, minimizing its visual impact on adjacent housing areas and maintaining important pedestrian connections through the site, such as the relocated Nahkurinpolku.
The lower volume accommodates the main public areas and its height is deliberately limited to preserve key views toward the power station façade when approaching from the city center. The taller volume contains new exhibition spaces and a black box theatre with associated technical and support areas. The black box theatre and the adjacent deep space projection hall are designed as flexible, multi-use venues for exhibitions, performances, and events.
The architectural expression of the extension is robust and precise. Vertical rhythms and deep recesses in the façade reinterpret the tall window proportions of the historic power station. The material palette with brown tinted concrete, copper, and glass reflects the industrial heritage of the site and creates a consistent, high-quality exterior.
