Lastu is an excellent example of how socially and environmentally sustainable development can be delivered. Step Education’s new building on its Järvenpää campus is built with a timber frame. Exciting and insightful use has been made of the material here, and the structures, once they reach the end of their life span, are suitable for recycling. The professional skill of the architects is evident throughout and the attention to detail is second to none.

Located at the Tuusula waterfront, the wider campus is based on Dag Englund and Toivo Pelli’s competition-winning design from the late 1940’s. Lastu makes for a skilfully conceived addition to this existing setting.As the new building is on the large side, articulation has been introduced to prevent it from dominating its surroundings. Similarly, the roof has been divided into a series of intersecting pitches. Ventilation shafts have been incorporated into skylights to disguise them. The roof design is clear and cohesive. Though the scale of the building is very much human, the approach to architecture is decidedly sculptural.The spatial solutions are designed to foster a sense of community. In addition to dedicated teaching spaces for beauty, hairdressing and healthcare, the building houses a multi-functional space, seminar rooms and a gym that also lends itself to large gatherings and serves as an auditorium. There is also a cafe, run by the students and open to the public, a beauty salon and adult special education facilities.

A wide staircase in the foyer serves as an informal social hub. It is where students gather to socialise and, with the mobile partition pulled back, doubles as a seating area for the auditorium. Built around the foyer, the learning spaces are designed to be flexible and adaptable.The interiors are defined by the presence of wood and light. The foyer’s full-height and full-length windows face out towards the nearby lake, bringing the outdoors in. A series of skylights bring indirect natural light into the interiors. The extensive use of wood lends warmth and personality to the building and ensure pleasant acoustics throughout.

Source: Finlandia Prize for Architecture 2024 jury