Commitment 08Read more
City-Port Interface
The City-Port Interface: A Resource for Diverse Development Projects
Revising the status of port and City Port heritage to properly reflect the site’s historical significance.
How can an old waterfront area be redeveloped while integrating heritage structures into new designs, preserving the maritime identity of the place?
Port cities have a shared identity that sets them apart from other cities. Yet each port city also draws on its history to forge its distinct identity. By including symbolic port installations (rails, cranes, containers, etc.) in urban planning and architectural projects and referencing port-related terminology in the choice of materials, colours and so on, project stakeholders can preserve and capitalise on this dual territorial identity. Helsinki has made use of distinctive materials and designs to highlight the maritime and industrial heritage of the port city.
In the 1940s, a paint and varnish factory constructed a warehouse in Helsinki's Ruoholahti district, a testament to the area's industrial resilience. However, it became isolated from traffic when a motorway was built in 1965. After serving as an emergency accommodation, the area was occupied by various groups and organisations, including Radio City and the Viirus Theatre, until the original factory building was demolished in 1999 due to new traffic arrangements.
Access exclusive resources, services and content reserved for AIVP members.