Töölö Market Square
open architecture and urban design competition
2nd prize
2020
Helsinki, Finland
The Töölö market square design includes a market hall and an entrance building to the metro. The square is located at Töölö city district in central Helsinki. Töölö was built in the beginning of the 20th century and is known for uniform architecture and a calm atmosphere. The idea for the competition came from the mayor of Helsinki who wanted the traditional square to be more alive and have an European and elegant atmosphere. The main idea of the design is to define the square space more precisely and dedicate it above all for pedestrians. In addition the market square is more closely linked to the surrounding shops, restaurants and cafés.
The vision for the Töölö Square is to revitalise a traditional square in the centre of Helsinki. Töölö market square is a common meeting place for the citizens of Helsinki, with local cafés, restaurants and boutiques offering their services. The new timber-framed market hall will allow active market trade, café and cultural activities even in the colder seasons. The vision also includes a new metro stop for the Pisara line.
The design defines the square more precisely and dedicates it above all for pedestrians. The old axis of the market square has been rotated 90 degrees so that the shops and boutiques surrounding the market square are directly connected to it. Existing trees have been preserved as much as possible, and new and varied green elements have been introduced to the area. This will allow the square to offer a variety of green elements for different user groups.
Töölö district was built in the beginning of the 20th century and is known for uniform architecture and a calm atmosphere. The new plan takes into account the historical values of this prestigious urban environment.