Vallilan Voimala office building

Project: Vallilan Voimala office building

Segment: Office

Country/city: Finland, Helsinki

Architect: Sisustusarkkitehdit Gullstén & Inkinen Oy

Acoustic design: Efterklang

Contractor: NL Trade Oy

Photographer: Aukusti Heinonen / Sisustusarkkitehdit Gullstén & Inkinen Oy

Production year: 2025

From industrial landmark to modern workplace

In 2025, the historic power plant building Vallilan Voimala in Helsinki was transformed into a modern workplace for the family-owned Heino Group. Originally built in 1901 as part of the former railway yard, the protected building has long been an important piece of the area’s industrial heritage. The renovation aimed to preserve this character while adapting the space to contemporary office needs.

Architect Jari Inkinen led the project, with interior design by Hanna Gullstén and her team at Gullstén-Inkinen Architects. Acoustic design was carried out by Eija Halme-Salo from Efterklang (Afry).

The design approach was guided by respect for the original structure. Façades, windows, doors and many interior details were carefully restored, and elements such as pipework and steel trusses were intentionally left exposed. Where materials could not be preserved, they were reconstructed to maintain the authentic appearance – including the distinctive red-and-white checkered floor, recreated based on historical documentation.

The building’s large volumes and architectural constraints posed acoustic challenges. In the former boiler hall, new Ecophon Master™ SQ panels were developed with a wave-like printed pattern inspired by the original suspended ceiling. The solution enhances the acoustic comfort while blending naturally into the industrial surroundings. Additional acoustic treatment included spray-applied material on upper wall sections, textile carpeting, and a black Ecophon Focus™ Dg system under the mezzanine to discreetly reduce reverberation.

A standout feature in the entrance lobby is the illuminated metal ceiling, designed together with lighting designer Petri Vainio. The layered, translucent structure integrates art, lighting and acoustic function, creating a strong visual impression in the low-height space.

Close collaboration with Heino Group ensured that the new workplace meets both current and future needs. Flexible layouts and adaptable spaces support everyday work as well as larger gatherings, reflecting the client’s ambition for long-term usability.

The project highlights how historic industrial buildings can be revitalised for modern use – preserving their identity while creating functional, acoustically comfortable environments.