Otakaari block

The project located in the Aalto University campus area consisted of zoning consultation and the preparation of a reference plan for the area’s landowners, Aalto University, and Senate Properties, on their behalf.

The new zoning plan allows for 26,350 square meters of construction rights on the previously undeveloped plot, which was previously used for parking. Plan includes student housing, diverse communal spaces, and a convenience store. With the construction, the Otakaari street area will also become a more active part of the campus area than before.

Key design challenges in the project included integrating new construction in a balanced manner within the valuable nationally significant built cultural environment area and ensuring the habitat of the flying squirrel nesting in the nearby areas. The project also explored new forms of student housing and the development of communal living in collaboration with the project client, the Aalto University Student Union.

The Espoo City Planning Board approved the zoning plan based on the reference plan in November 2020.