ADM Architecture and Design Museum

Helsinki, FINLAND

Year 2025

A place by the community, for the community, to live year-round, at any hour of the day, in harmony with nature and culture.

Our proposal for the Architecture and Design Museum in Helsinki take inspiration form the Nature and the Finnish architecture. To define the building's shape, we focus on several key elements: the view from road Etelainen Makasiinikatu, the curvature of road Laivasillankatu, the shoreline walk, alignment with the Saaret project, and the site's boundary. Within the selected boundary, we will plant trees to establish a seamless connection with Tähtitorninvuori Hil, enhancing the natural integration of the area.The selected portion of land is elevated to create a roof garden, forming an open ground level that seamlessly connects the indoors with the outdoors. The indoor piazza becomes a dynamic social hub where interaction is encouraged. This space is accessible from all directions, transforming into a creative playground for culture, food, and social gatherings. The design also magnifies the sea view and strengthens the connection with the shoreline.All façades are uniformly clad in locally sourced timber, ensuring a cohesive appearance. A central circular opening provides vertical connectivity within the building and links all the gallery spaces, accommodating the display of very tall exhibition elements. The roof garden serves as a vantage point with views of the bay, featuring an amphitheater for events. A series of garden elements and a circular pedestrian path create a peaceful and relaxing experience. Additionally, the roof is designed to establish a visual connection with Tähtitorninvuori Hill.A freestanding sculpture, designed to be equally visible from all sides and above, is supported by three main “pillars” that house the building's service areas. The remaining space seamlessly combines exhibition areas with museum activities, all with the aim of inspiring the next generation of architects and designers. This structure, reminiscent of a spaceship sailing into the future crafted from resilient timber to protect against harsh climates, much like the hull of a vessel, creating a welcoming space for the community.The roof of the building acts as the fifth façade, featuring a green area and an amphitheatre for summer exhibitions or simply to enjoy the view on a midsummer night. Stairs connect the different levels of the surrounding external area, creating an open space that, in winter, hosts an ice rink and, in warmer seasons, serves as a pop-up market, concert, or event space. Each September at the Helsiki Design Week , the museum could host a contest where an artist, designer, or architect is invited to present a piece to be showcased in this space