- An anarchist in constant change
Suvilahti is a unique industrial milieu that is changing all the time - at least its graffiti wall looks different every day. Suvilahti is home to a wide range of cultural actors and a venue for major public events and festivals.
The former power and gas plant encompasses nine buildings: Voimalaitos, Makasiini, Tiivistämö, Puhdistamo, Konttori, Kojehuone, Mittarikorjaamo, Porttirakennus, and Valvomo as well as 2.5 hectares of open-air yard space.
Two large gasholders of steel and brick have become local landmarks. The demolition, cleaning and refurbishment of these gasholders has begun in phases in the autumn 2016. After the refurbishment, the gasholders can be transformed into cultural use.
Suvilahti’s tenants range from photographers to a brewery bar and from venues for gigs to circus schools. As the renovation of the facilities progresses, more tenants and activities will appear offering open year-round cultural activities and entertainment.
Suvilahti’s location in the heart of the new Kalasatama district represents a unique opportunity to transform the area into a lively social space.
Since the beginning of 2008, Suvilahti is administered by the property management company Kiinteistö Oy Kaapelitalo owned by the city of Helsinki. The company is responsible for renovating and renting the former industrial buildings for arts and culture.
Photo: Heikki Kouvo