2023
Seinäjoki, Finland
30 000 m²
Master's thesis
Urban Spaces with Human Scale
The project introduces a new mixed-use block in Seinäjoki’s city center, adjacent to the Aalto Center. The project continues the development of the civic core by introducing educational, residential, and public functions into a coherent urban structure. It is located on the site of a former vocational school and aims to reconnect the area with the surrounding urban fabric.
The plan consists of a new vocational school building, student and senior housing, and a series of connected outdoor spaces. The building masses are arranged to respect key cityscape views toward the Aalto Center, including the Apila Library and Lakeuden Risti Church. The composition complements the existing modernist city structure while defining new urban spaces with a clear and balanced scale.
The educational building forms the heart of the block. Its layout is based on a simple column grid that allows efficient and flexible use of space. The ground floor contains public and shared functions such as a lobby, restaurant, and a multipurpose hall, which can be opened toward the main square for events and community use. Teaching and workspaces are organized in the upper floors along clear corridors with natural light and visual connections between levels.
The residential buildings on the southern side of the site provide housing for students and seniors. Their scale and roof forms relate to the surrounding neighbourhood, and the courtyards and roof terraces support a sense of community. The ground floors include small commercial and shared spaces that bring activity to the street and the central square.
