A Garden Suburb in Nature’s Embrace

The Fazerila Garden Suburb is a nature‑oriented and sustainable neighbourhood where green corridors, the Sammakkolaakso nature reserve, and the tram form the core of the area. The blocks follow the terrain, open towards nature and create a village‑like, vibrant setting for living, working and leisure. A high‑quality green and recreational route links parks, squares and local nature sites, while public spaces provide a clear structure for the whole.

Varied villa‑style blocks rhythm the district. Their sheltered courtyards open towards nature and connect via parks into a meandering street space. Buildings are designed to allow timber construction or low‑carbon solutions. Shared characteristics across blocks include distinct roof forms, ground‑level courtyards, a diverse mix of apartment types, and direct connections to green areas. Yards, balconies and terraces support a pleasant everyday life close to nature. A daycare centre in the northern part sits at the edge of Sammakkolaakso, with servicing, drop‑off and accessibility considered for all modes of travel.

Ecological Values and Mobility

The design starts from preserving existing natural assets—notable trees, rock outcrops and green links—into which new development is carefully fitted. Green and recreational routes tie public green areas and nature sites into a wider ecological network. Within the Sammakkolaakso reserve, visitor movement is guided onto boardwalk trails to protect sensitive habitats.

Stormwater parks and block‑level pocket parks act as detention and filtration areas, provide local recreation and support the ecosystem. Public parks, such as Fazerinpuisto, connect micro‑forests, event spaces and commercial uses, while block courtyards and nature courtyards vary by terrain and habitat, offering green views and opportunities for urban farming.

Construction preserves specimen trees and biodiversity, reuses felled timber as deadwood habitats, and employs excavated rock in landscape works. Planting schemes, bird boxes, insect hotels and meadow areas further enhance ecological value. Water use is designed to be efficient: rain and stormwater are used to irrigate parks and yards, while permeable surfaces and green courtyards support nature‑based stormwater management.

Mobility is anchored in the tram and pleasant, well‑connected walking and cycling routes. Factory logistics are routed to the southern side, reducing heavy traffic on Fazerintie and within residential areas. A clear, minimised street network serves the blocks and can be integrated into a wider system in the future.

“Fazerila Stop” forms the primary point of arrival, where active‑travel routes converge. Access to the new blocks is via calm, green “villa streets.” Parking is centralised in block‑specific parking houses with green façades and roofs, designed for future adaptability to alternative uses. Parking and drop‑off for the Visitor Centre are placed at the edge of the park, maintaining a welcoming pedestrian environment. An underpass beneath the tram street provides an ecological corridor for both people and wildlife, ensuring safe, continuous and green movement.

A Sustainable Fazerila

Sustainability is grounded in creating a pleasant, functional and long‑lived environment that encourages low‑impact lifestyles. Blocks that “breathe with nature,” a compact street space and durable, high‑quality materials together produce a timeless urban setting. Mobility prioritises the tram, public transport, and a comprehensive, safe cycling and walking network. Bicycle parking located in block courtyards supports everyday sustainable travel.

Community is a cornerstone: public spaces, shared facilities and safe, green routes foster encounters and resource‑wise living. Buildings can be realised in timber, and materials prioritise renewable and recycled options. The area’s energy needs are met with renewable sources, including solar and geothermal systems, with roof surfaces serving as significant energy‑producing areas. The plan offers a framework within which sustainable lifestyles and a comfortable, community‑oriented urban environment can take shape.