Guggenheim Helsinki

Design Competition proposal

+ Malcolm Reading

One of six finalist entries.

The design of the Guggenheim Helsinki and its woven landscape are based upon a sensitive and sympathetic approach to the context and nature of Helsinki. The fragmental design encourages people to flow within a new cultural core that is linked to the rest of the city, through the port promenade and the pedestrian footbridge to Tahtitorninvuori Park. This flexible access welcomes not only the visitors but also serves as a key cultural destination for the community.
The museum skyline is composed by independent volumes highlighted by landmark tower. These fragmental art exhibition spaces allow strong integration with outdoor display and event spaces, while the vertical sky galleries offer a new perspective over the city of Helsinki. This new museum concept together with the charred timber façade echoes the process of regeneration that occurs when forests burn and then grow back stronger.