Concept and Identity of the Plan

The “Konkaavi” plan is based on the interaction between housing, light traffic, and a sports and event center. The Hybrid Arena, located in the southwestern corner of the block, combines corporate events, wellbeing, experiences, and a restaurant world, complementing the services of the adjacent Hertsi shopping center.

A pedestrian and bicycle route running through the block creates an urban street space and service opportunities connected to the residential buildings. At the meeting point of the route and the Hybrid Arena, a square is formed, enlivened by retail, café, and restaurant spaces.

The Architectural and Functional

Main Principles of the Design

The massing of the block follows the city plan and creates a clear, urban appearance. Uniform eight-storey residential buildings form a courtyard block, with passageways and gateways providing connections for pedestrians and cyclists. The main route runs diagonally from the corner of Työnjohtajankatu and Insinöörinkatu toward the Hybrid Arena square and the Hertsi shopping center. A 13-storey residential tower located within the block serves as a landmark and brings more light to the square adjacent to the main entrance of the event center.

The buildings’ roofs support sustainable development: the tower roof functions as a residential courtyard, while the other roofs are designed as green roofs. On the Itäväylä side, the event center and parking facility shield the housing from traffic noise. The event center’s stepped massing allows light into the courtyard, while its restaurant terrace and lobby spaces activate the building toward Itäväylä and the metro station.

The Hybrid Arena project will realize a versatile 10,500 m² event, sports, and wellbeing center, developed and operated by an experienced service provider and its partners. The company has prior experience with a similar “Hybrid Arena Hype” center in Kivenlahti. The proximity of the Herttoniemi metro station enhances the area’s accessibility and makes it an attractive hub for business and services.

The event center offers adaptable, digitally enabled spaces for sports, events, and exercise. It can also host ball games for 1,000–1,500 spectators with retractable electronic stands. Parking and bicycle spaces for the block are concentrated in a parking facility, whose roof accommodates residential saunas and yard areas. The green rooftop courtyard reduces noise and particulate emissions and enhances residential comfort.