Timo Hintsanen, Turku City’s planning director and member of the competition jury, expressed the high level of competition: "An interesting design subject in a great location has attracted an incredibly high-quality and broad group of participants. The jury's extensive evaluation work is still in early days. However, it is clear that from the diverse and high-quality competition proposals, a design will emerge that we can enthusiastically commit to."
The proposals, compiled into image posters featuring text, visualizations, and drawings, invite feedback from the public on strengths, areas for further development, and their integration into Turku's cityscape, especially the picturesque surroundings of Linnanniemi, the tip of the Turku peninsula. Public comments will be compiled as a background document for the competition jury's evaluation. The opportunity for public feedback ends on April 7, but the competition proposals will remain accessible on the service until the end of 2024.
An inspirational environment
Design guidelines for the competition emphasized high-quality architecture, purpose-suited interior spaces, and sustainability. The museum aims to be climate-resilient, aligning with the city's climate and energy action plan goals. The unique environment, with Turku Castle and the Aura River nearby, has inspired designers worldwide to incorporate these elements into their proposals.
The results of the architecture competition will be announced on June 17, 2024. A total of 175,000 euros in prizes will be awarded, with 70,000 euros for the winner. The top three proposals will be recognized, and the jury may purchase up to three additional proposals. The awarded and purchased proposals will be featured in a pop-up exhibition at Turku Market Square from June 18 to August 10, 2024.
Turku's Mayor Minna Arve serves as chair of the architecture competition jury. The jury also includes Turku City Council members Ulla Achrén and Alice Girs, planning director Timo Hintsanen, planning manager Paula Keskikastari, culture director Anu Laitila, head of locality services Leevi Luoto, director of museum services Juhani Ruohonen, director of city building Kimmo Suonpää, and architect Mari Virtanen. Architects Claudia Auer and Simo Paavilainen serve as jury members appointed by the Finnish Association of Architects (SAFA).
A landmark and an international destination
The Museum of History and the Future aims to be a landmark national and international cultural tourism destination, projected to attract 200,000 visitors annually. Set to be one of the first new buildings in the Linnanniemi area, the museum is expected to open to the public by the end of 2030.
At the Museum of History and the Future, visitors will engage with the stories, places, and destinies of Finland's oldest city through exhibitions and events. The museum will combine storytelling and digital technology, offering interactive experiences through hands-on activities and experiments. It will also showcase Turku City's collections, spanning cultural-historical objects to contemporary art and natural sciences.
For more information and to view the competition proposals, please visit turku.fi/en/museum-history-and-future/architecture-competition.