2024
Kurikka, Finland
3 900 m²
Architecture Competition entry
A Contemporary Interpretation of the Archetype
The proposal envisions a new Kurikka City Hall that is deeply rooted in its local context. The building integrates naturally into the existing urban fabric, respecting the scale and character of its surroundings while creating a building with strong identity.
The new city hall consists of three gable-roofed volumes, a familiar archetype of the Finnish periphery. The composition preserves key cityscape views toward Kurikka Church, while forming a welcoming public square that extends to the nearby marketplace. The central mass rises slightly higher, subtly marking the building’s public role and the location of its main entrance, lobby and the council hall.
The architectural expression draws from both traditional Finnish building heritage and contemporary interpretation, resulting in a calm yet distinctive architecture. Wooden vertical cladding softens the façade, while carefully composed openings and refined detailing give the building a modern, approachable character.
Functionally, the plan balances specificity and flexibility. A regular modular grid defines the spatial structure, supporting efficient, adaptable layouts. The ground floor gathers the main public functions around a central lobby that opens toward the square and Kurikka Church. Office spaces are organized along narrow wings for optimal daylight and clear orientation.
The building is designed as a CLT structure with a pillar-slab system, emphasizing local production, circularity, and long-term sustainability. The standardized modular approach supports flexible use, efficient construction, and future adaptability. Technical systems are integrated discreetly, and the simple structural logic enhances both buildability and end-of-life recyclability.
