Best not to demolish

Name: Archinfo
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Virpi Talja Nerman / Kamu Espoo City Museum

The exhibition explores building demolition and its alternatives at a time when the built environment is being transformed faster than ever before.

Almost as many buildings are demolished in Finland as in the peak years of demolition in the 1960s and 1970s. At the moment, younger buildings are under threat of demolition. The exhibition examines when demolition is justified and when an existing building might instead be preserved, highlighting options such as repair, maintenance and the reuse of buildings.

The exhibition evokes thoughts about environmental impacts, the culture of repair, and the vacant buildings. It challenges to consider whether an empty building could be a solution instead of a new one.

Best not to Demolish is part of a nationwide campaign that aims to spark discussion about demolition and the future of buildings. The exhibition encourages visitors to view the built environment with fresh eyes – and to reflect on what kind of environment will be passed on to future generations.