University of Vaasa completes 50 million euro campus renovation in Finland

The University of Vaasa has completed a comprehensive renovation of its campus, which was executed in several phases. The Tritonia building, constructed in 2001, along with the Tervahovi and Luotsi buildings finished in 1994, were in need of updates despite their relatively young age. “The renovation was driven by tangible needs, particularly regarding plumbing and health considerations. Modern teaching practices demand functionalities that weren’t required in the early 1990s,” explained Rector Minna Martikainen.

The final stage saw significant upgrades to Tervahovi, enhancing its flexibility and multi-functionality as a learning space. “Tervahovi has fundamentally transformed and modernized. We have undertaken an enormous amount of repair work,” Martikainen noted.

The long corridors of Tritonia reflect high-quality materials and design, with a greater emphasis on open communal spaces. The main entrance has also been made automated and accessible, marking a visible change from before.

This campus-wide renewal has come at a cost of 50 million euros. The cafeteria Mathilda has been expanded to connect the Tervahovi with the Ankkuri office building, indicating a significant transformation.

Efforts have also been made to enhance the campus’s ambiance through art, with collector Pekka Lind donating over 80 works, including 12 watercolors by Nandor Mikola, which have been placed in the renovated student areas of Tervahovi.

The renovation utilized existing structures wherever possible, blending old elements with the new. The project followed an alliance model that brought together multiple stakeholders for collaboration, resulting in a cohesive campus that celebrates its coastal location while emphasizing community and accessibility in the design.