Concept and Property Development

Helsinki Central Station’s EUR 60 Million Project: Towards a Modern and Inviting Hub

The slogan “From Station to Destination” captures the core of Helsinki Central Railway Station’s development project. This EUR 60 million investment goes beyond mere renovation — it strengthens the station’s role as a vibrant heart of the city. The project includes enhancing service structures, increasing rental income to boost property value, and improving the overall passenger experience.

Amerikka Design Office has been part of the development since 2018.

Above is a 3D video by Amerikka showing how the station will continue to evolve!

From a Transit Hub to a Service Provider

Jani Jääskeläinen, Project Manager at VR Group’s real estate unit, sits in a meeting room where the railway station’s history is reflected in the details. Behind the stairs, the busy station pulses with life, just as it has for over a century.

The granite-clad Central Railway Station is a major transport hub and Finland’s busiest commercial spot, with up to 250,000–300,000 people passing through on peak days.

“We have nearly 14,000 m² of retail and office space available for lease in this prime transport hub,” Jääskeläinen says.

“This is Finland’s most valuable everyday object — and it’s only on loan to us. The Central Railway Station has served its users for over 100 years, and it’s our responsibility to pass it on to future generations in at least as good condition,” Jääskeläinen continues.

A EUR 60 Million Redevelopment to Revive Helsinki’s Historic Station as a Vibrant Urban Destination

In spring 2023, VR’s Board of Directors approved the implementation of the project’s second phase and decided to incorporate the station into a new entity. The total investment for the entire redevelopment is approximately €60 million. VR retains full ownership of the property, which has operated since early 2023 under the name Kiinteistö Oy Helsingin Päärautatieasema.

Back in the early 1900s, architect Eliel Saarinen worked on the design of the railway station from his office inside the Railway Administration building. Today, within that same historical setting, Jani Jääskeläinen leads the redevelopment that will breathe new life into the station’s interior spaces.

“One of the key reasons for launching the project was the sale and conversion of VR’s old administration building into a hotel. At the same time, it became clear that the station itself was in need of a comprehensive renovation and a significant update to its services,” explains Jääskeläinen.

A historical landmark and a popular tourist destination, the station must also serve the needs of modern-day users. The redevelopment aims to bring together contemporary functionality and architectural elegance—just as Eliel Saarinen originally envisioned.

Helsingin päärautatieasema - Eliel Saarinen - Kansallisarkisto

After multiple design phases, the station evolved into an architectural expression characteristic of Eliel Saarinen.
Images: National Archives / Image editing: Jouni Kaipia.

Property Developer’s Tips for Renovating Historic Sites

A project that respects architectural heritage requires close collaboration between authorities and the design team. When developing a protected site, updates must be made to the building’s historical survey and conservation management plan, which together define what aspects of the space must be preserved.

Jääskeläinen emphasizes the importance of balancing preservation with functionality: “Preservation should support the operator – but it should not hinder operations.”

“The design process has outlined clear restrictions and guidelines for the appearance of commercial spaces. When the outcome is harmonious, it also benefits the brands operating in the space,” he adds.

All changes require a building permit and approval from the Finnish Heritage Agency. The current phase of the project is processing its 22nd building permit.

“The best way to preserve an old property is through smart use, renovation, and maintenance. If there are no users, there are no payers – and then the building will deteriorate. We’ve succeeded in creating a strong collaboration with the authorities,” says Jani Jääskeläinen.

He also offers a few key insights for property developers and owners: “When working with a protected site, it’s important to increase understanding of the value of preservation. It helps to know why the site is protected and what the benefits of that protection are. Fighting against preservation rarely leads anywhere.”

Designing for a protected property is slower and more expensive, as cooperation with authorities starts at an early stage.

“Preliminary designs and technical plans must be submitted to authorities well in advance – decisions can’t be made on-site during construction,” Jääskeläinen points out.

Sami Maukonen, Design Director at Amerikka, believes the project’s greatest success lies in how the changes respect their surroundings and honor Eliel Saarinen’s original architectural vision.

“The goal has been to make the station look as if it has always been this way,” says Sami Maukonen. “Previous plans have also proven useful, for example, the angled corners of Nurmesniemi’s kiosks improved visibility and pedestrian flow. The new kiosks have glass corners for the same reason – they enhance sightlines and safety by allowing people moving in different directions to see one another.”

Preservation requirements must be balanced with commercial realities – even a protected station can’t be turned into a museum

Amerikka Design Office has contributed its deep expertise in creating functional service structures. The concept design process helps build shared understanding, strengthen commitment, and clarify the project’s goals. Through workshops and participatory design, the team has ensured that the solutions meet the needs of all stakeholders.

“This is purely commercial activity – we fund our own investments through operating income. Amerikka has brought us valuable commercial insight: what matters to end users and tenants. An understanding of what should be here, for whom, and why. That concept forms the foundation of our work,” explains Jani Jääskeläinen.

A key factor in the project’s success has been the client’s trust and commitment to the jointly developed concept, as well as an understanding of the project’s required timeline.

“This project has demonstrated that VR is among Finland’s most skilled, ambitious, and responsible property developers,” Maukonen states.

“We set three main goals for the concept phase: after the renewal, the station would offer suitable services to multiple target groups, increase the share of non-traveling customers, and boost conversion rates across all target groups. All goals have been achieved, and the station has become one of the key commercial drivers in downtown Helsinki,” Maukonen adds, satisfied.

Helsinki Central Station – Steissi, Assa and Stone Men

The stone men stand steadfast, as always. Beneath their granite shells, Saarinen’s historic legacy meets modern services in perfect harmony. The flow of commuters sets the rhythm of the day. Quick snacks are grabbed from kiosks, while others pause in restaurants for a moment’s rest. The station’s historic halls pulse with the tempo of today—where hurried travelers and lingering locals cross paths.

The station has stood the test of time, both architecturally and functionally. Its spaces were designed to serve travelers who once had time for a meal before their train. Though the pace of travel has quickened, the station continually adapts to new needs – always preserving its original look, with changes reversible. Today, it is more than just a transport hub, it is a vibrant urban space where people arrive, not just depart.

“The location is excellent. You can reach it by metro, bus, or tram, though most travelers arrive by train. Within a short walk are Helsinki’s most important cultural landmarks: the Ateneum, National Theatre, Amos Rex, Music Centre, Kiasma, and Oodi library.

We have succeeded with the idea of ‘From Station to Destination.’ The station has become more than a thoroughfare, it is a destination in itself,” smiles project manager Jani Jääskeläinen.

Watch the video made with our project partners

Starring Amerikka’s Sami Maukonen and Maria Kelter, alongside Minna Lukander from Talli Oy!

The project’s authorities include the Finnish Heritage Agency, Building Control, and Väylä, which operates and maintains platforms and infrastructure. The City of Helsinki also plays a significant role.

The design team consists of A-Konsultit Architects as the lead designer, Talli Architects. as the responsible architect, and Amerikka Design Office handling architecture, concept, and interior design. Technical design has been done by Ramboll, Rejlers, and AFRY. The project management is handled by Berater.

Phase 1. (2018–2022)

New kiosks in the Central Hall: Jungle Juice Bar and Raito Sushi
Restaurant Olivia and grab & go concept Pronto in the former ticket hall
Café Eliel in the former social spaces for train staff (at the end of Eliel Square)
New passenger service facilities, public restrooms, and storage lockers in the basement level
Renovation of the West Wing shopping corridor: new seating areas and graphic artworks by Vesa Sammalisto
New retail spaces in the West Hall for R-Kioski and Subway

>> READ MORE

Phase 2. (2023–2026)

Renovations of multiple spaces and extensive building system upgrades
New restaurant and terrace replacing the former Burger King in the dining hall
A 300-seat event center and brewery restaurant Kellotorni in place of The Pullman Bar and the Olympiasali on the 2nd floor (opening in autumn 2025)
Installation of an elevator in Kellotorni according to Saarinen’s original design – tickets will be sold for tower access to enjoy the views after completion
Restoration of the restaurant’s back area and the former pie bakery in Kellotorni’s lower section to a more original state
New retail spaces in the kiosk hall and platform area

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Does your space need development? Don’t hesitate to reach out—no matter the size of your project, we’ll work together to find the best solution for your specific needs!

info@amerikka.fi