Heart and Horizon

Exhibition at Aedes Architecture Forum


For over two decades, Helin & Co has been instrumental in shaping Helsinki's evolution into a modern metropolitan region—one of Northern Europe's most influential architectural practices. They approach architecture as a commitment to the future, weaving together human-centered design ("Heart") with a thoughtful dialogue with waterfront urbanism ("Horizon"). The firm operates with contextual sensitivity and resource consciousness, anchoring their work in the intersection of functionality, urban vitality, and architectural precision.

Three landmark projects—featured prominently in the exhibition—exemplify this philosophy: Kamppi Centre, a vibrant urban district at Helsinki's heart integrating transit, culture, and housing; Kalasatama Centre, a new urban nucleus on the revitalized waterfront that merges density with unobstructed sea vistas; and Sello District Centre in Espoo, a multifunctional anchor housing a library, music school, and concert hall. Collectively, these projects create spaces where living, working, and culture converge into an open, distinctly maritime urban experience.

The exhibition unfolds across both galleries at Aedes. The first room showcases three landmark projects—Kamppi, Kalasatama, and Sello—through photographs, plans, and models that reveal their scope and ambition. The second explores Helin & Co's diverse practice, from residential developments to metro stations, demonstrating how the firm has built Helsinki since its founding. Cinematic drone footage captures how each project integrates into its urban context. A curated book collection invites deeper exploration of the firm's work, best enjoyed from chairs designed by founder Pekka Helin.

www.aedes-arc.de

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