Vallila Corner – Developing an industrial area into a lively urban district
Kuortanegatan 2, 00510 Helsinki, Finland
Vallila is a former industrial area that has been transformed into a lively urban district. These days Vallila is the perfect location for businesses and community activities of all kinds, and its history and nostalgia attract small and large businesses to the area.
Vallila Corner is an office property located about three kilometres from downtown Helsinki, between Kuortaneenkatu and Elimäenkatu, and formerly housed GE Healthcare’s Finnish head office. Vallila Corner consists of two buildings constructed in 1963 and 1990 with a total lettable area of around 15,000 square meters. The asset was acquired as a classic lease-up, with mark-to-market rents and involving modernisation of the premises and service offering.
Our goal for the asset was to reposition it as an attractive multi-tenant office property, meeting the needs of companies of various sizes and in various business areas. We wanted to give the property a distinctive facelift. The design of the main façade in the corner of Elimäenkatu and Kuortaneenkatu was by architect partner Konkret and it provided a natural connection to the property’s new identity.
In addition to refurbishing the main façade and entrance area we have renewed the lunch restaurant concept and developed property services, including a cosy café, friendly lobby service, a shower facility and community spaces, as well as an auditorium and facilities to accommodate meetings of all sizes.
The most recent project was the refurbishment of the 2nd floor terrace which provides an outdoor area where all tenants can relax or enjoy lunch in a verdant setting, test their mini golf skills or get a light workout on the basketball court. Office premises are tailored for each tenant and have been renovated to accommodate modern requirements. Good floor-to-ceiling height and large windows provide a great framework on which to customise the spaces.
The property is certified to Breeam In-Use at the Very Good level.
