Nichtoffener Wettbewerb | 02/2023
The Train Factory in Helsinki (FI)
©Cobe / Schauman & Nordgren / WSP Finland
Finalist / 2. Phase
Architektur
Schauman & Nordgren Architects
Architektur
Tragwerksplanung
Beurteilung durch das Preisgericht
The formerly 3 -mass proposal has been changed to two similar masses of roughly equivalent height. The towers have now been pulled back from Teollisuuskatu and the given phasing line has been taken into account. The massing of the proposal has improved with the previous “wall -effect” addressed and greater transparency achieved. The developed proposal gives a lighter effect towards Teollisuuskatu, The distinctive architecture has been retained and developed further. The two flat tower -like buildings of almost the same height appear unmotivated and not the right solution for this site.
Unfortunately, the ground floor has lost a lot of its joy in the second phase. The street front is less inviting than in the first phase and there are still problems regarding pedestrian routes and their dimensions. It is unclear why the connection between Konepajanpasaasi and the ‘Cathedral’ entrance has been omitted from the updated project.
Deliveries on ground floor have been designed according to the given guidelines. The highest volume rises to +109.00 from sea level but it is unlikely the technical spaces currently presented are adequate.
The proposal is commercially sensible and easily workable towards the desired direction. The simplicity of the proposal is its strength. However, the manner in which the proposal references its historical neighbors is not deemed appropriate. The detailing appears alien to its context and at times difficult to execute. The straightforward massing does balance this, but stylistically the proposal is not seen as strong enough.
©Cobe / Schauman & Nordgren / WSP Finland
©Cobe / Schauman & Nordgren / WSP Finland
©Cobe / Schauman & Nordgren / WSP Finland
©Cobe / Schauman & Nordgren / WSP Finland
©Cobe / Schauman & Nordgren / WSP Finland