Helsinki's planning criticized for neglecting architectural heritage

Helsinki's commitment to preserving its architectural heritage is under scrutiny, particularly with the proposed addition of extra floors to the historic Stock Exchange building. Sari Lounasmeri, CEO of the Stock Exchange Foundation, expressed optimism about the desirability of new spaces within the building, as stated in a press release on April 14, 2025. However, this ambition may come at the cost of destroying a valuable granite structure.

The city of Helsinki is criticized for its lax policies regarding the addition of new floors to old buildings, including those that are protected and hold significant cultural and historical value. The author contends that city officials do not adequately appreciate the city's own history. There should be a much higher threshold for demolishing parts of a building, adding extensions, or constructing additional stories onto historic structures, especially when they are protected.

Recent examples illustrate this perceived disregard for heritage. Beyond the Stock Exchange building, the author points to the Aleksanteri Theatre case and the demolition and reconstruction at the Ministry of the Council of State's printing house. Furthermore, historically significant environments are being marred by new constructions that are inappropriate for their locations, such as the silos at Elielinaukio and a poorly designed new building in the courtyard of the National Museum.

The current urban planning in Helsinki appears to be heavily influenced by the initiatives and demands of real estate investors. The practice of adding "terrible" extra floors to buildings seems to be easily approved, with little effort made to integrate new constructions into their existing surroundings. Even the National Board of Antiquities appears unconcerned about the degradation of the urban landscape.