What can we do with all this empty space?
Helsinki Recycled is a series of articles about the future for the old and valuable premises situated in Helsinki. It concentrates on regulations regarding the use of these old spaces, not only from the policymaker’s point of view but also from the cultural and urban activist’s perspective.
We interviewed the director of culture Stuba Nikula and the chief architect Henna Helander, a member of the city council Hannu Oskala, the founder of the Helsinki Design Week Kari Korkman and a future researcher Aleksi Neuvonen.
The idea for the reportage was born from the uncertain situation of the old historical machine shop in Pasila. The area is currently being turned into flats and office space. The uncertainty, however, kept many waiting for over two decades. There are also many other valuable spaces in Helsinki that have not been in use for years. In some cases, these spaces aren’t even being properly maintained. The city’s strict regulations prevent the creative use of these premises even though the new tenants would liven up the area and take care of the properties. Together the community could reshape the spaces into a new use that would not only profit the city’s economy but also protect the cultural and social capital that’s being wasted away.
See the pictures here!