Architectural competitions have been held in Finland for over 140 years. Many unique structures and built environments of the highest standard have been created as a result of competitions.

In the centre of Helsinki alone, there are one hundred buildings based on competition entries. They include schools, churches and offices as well as major administrative, cultural and commercial buildings – from the Olympic Stadium to Stockmann Department Store. Competitions have had a profound impact on the cityscape and urban identity in Helsinki.

To celebrate its 125th anniversary, the Finnish Association of Architects SAFA has made this selection of Helsinki’s architectural landmarks that are results of architectural competitions. The selection is accompanied by interviews of four prominent Helsinki residents with stories and memories to share – all of them have a special relationship with the built environment. To read the articles, please visit the address 100skabaa.fi.

The project presentation texts in this selection are based on different sources, such as the publications
Paula Huotelin, Maarit Kaipiainen (eds.): Dreams and comp(L)eted projects – 130 years of Finnish architectural competitions, Finnish Association of Architects, 2006
Arvi Ilonen: Helsinki, Espoo, Kauniainen, Vantaa – An architectural guide, Otava, 2000