Detailed local plans for the plot of the new architecture and design museum are approved
JKMM Architects
The detailed local plans for the new museum for architecture and design, as well as the Makasiininranta and Olympiaranta areas have become legally binding, allowing the new museum project to proceed. No appeals were submitted against the plans approved by Helsinki City Council.
The South Harbour waterfront district includes the plot of the new museum for architecture and design with its public event square, and an open-access shoreline route and four new commercial buildings, the Saaret project. New uses are planned for the Olympic Terminal and Harbour Office Building, both of which form part of the development project. The legality of the plans accelerates the progress of the projects.
An open international architectural competition was held for the new museum for architecture and design, which collected 624 anonymous proposals. The Finnish architectural office JKMM Architects' competition entry "Kumma" was selected as winner.
The implementation design of the museum is under way, and construction is expected to begin in early 2028. The building is set to open to the public in the end of 2030.
Alongside the museum, the Saaret development is also progressing. The project is based on the winning quality and concept competition proposal by Niam, K2S Architects, White Arkitects and Ramboll. The project introduces office and hotel buildings with street-level restaurants and retail spaces along the South Harbour route. The investor Niam's aim is to create an inspiring and sustainable urban environment while developing workspaces and customer environments that respond to today’s needs.
The next phase of the projects will include finalising the building design, obtaining the necessary permits and the preparation of the construction. The schedule will be updated along the project. Before the construction phase, preparatory works will include ground remediation, site preparation and the strengthening of quay structures.
In August 2026, Architecture & Design Museum Helsinki will open a new event space at Eteläranta 6, where visitors can follow the area's transformation throughout the construction process. The museum offers exhibitions and events in the current premises on Korkeavuorenkatu until the completion of the new museum building.
