THE PROJECT
Promote urban development, preserve historical culture, innovating and strengthening the city’s identity through design and technology: the proposal of architectural and urban design is based on these principles. The content of interventions in public spaces aims to improve pedestrian circulation, vehicular traffic and public transportation, presenting functional and aesthetic changes with new landscaping and lighting, providing living spaces in the South Harbour that were previously restricted to port service activities. The project includes the construction of a New International Terminal for ships passengers, Art Museum, Water Bus Terminal, Exhibition Pavilions, Ice Skating Rink, Skate Park, Multipurpose Arena and other interventions.

URBAN DEVELOPMENT
The purpose of the interventions at Helsinki South Harbour is to establish a new plan of ideas for the future development of the area. The urban development happens in broad spheres. Understanding the city as a living organism, it needs to be in constant metamorphosis to suit at the needs of its time. The main level for functional balance lies in a simple relationship of two elements: the built space and the mobility of people. The buildings of a city dictate the rules of locomotion by the operation of its specific functions and people move according to the availability and convenience of the means of transport. Therefore, the efficient means of transport and the strategic location of the buildings will make the urban machine work perfectly.

HISTORICAL CULTURE
The historical elements are the marks inserted during the life cycle of the city. These are events that leave good or bad impressions. The Helsinki Port has an unquestionable historical value, with buildings that belongs to the essence of city life. Any proposal for the area should consider the views to the historic buildings, especially the marine facades, business card for tourists. In this project the cultural and historical considerations were primordial for the buildings design conception.

IDENTITY
The preservation of historical identity cannot be a barrier to the implantation of a new image of the city. Helsinki aims to grow in the 21st century with the identity of innovation. Innovation that can give new life, bring economic growth, increase tourism in the city and worldwide dissemination, always remembering environmental and social responsibilities.

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY
The best way to positively transform a city’s landscape is with refined and accurate architecture, and the instruments for this are: design and technology. The use of technology enables bold engineering solutions and maximum potential utilization of available resources. Technology now has a chance to change its side, once enemy and nature destroyer, now can be a fundamental tool for environmental sustainability techniques.