AOR Architects: Shaping the future with tradition and vision

By Ndéla Faye

Helsinki-based AOR Architects is celebrated for its fusion of traditional building methods and forward-thinking, sustainable design. Specialising in complex public buildings and urban planning, the firm’s award-winning projects exemplify its deep expertise in modern architecture.

AOR Architects is known for its multidisciplinary approach, integrating aesthetics, social impact, ecology, and functionality. Its diverse portfolio spans public and private projects, from large-scale urban developments to bespoke commissions.

The firm’s standout projects include the Tampere Art Museum, Tuusula High School and Cultural Centre Monio, and Helsinki’s Jätkäsaari School. “Our work reflects a commitment to sustainability, versatility, and bold problem-solving,” says partner Arto Ollila. Renowned for navigating complex urban environments and merging contemporary structures with historical or natural surroundings, AOR thrives on challenging projects. “The tougher the task, the more we can demonstrate our expertise,” Ollila adds.

One of AOR Architects’ recent projects is an extension to the historic Tampere Art Museum, originally designed by C. L. Engel and built in 1838. The firm prioritised preserving the adjacent park and green space, opting for a vertical structure that minimises its footprint on the ground. A key feature of the design allows art to be visible from the street, ensuring that passers-by can engage with the museum also from outside.

AOR Architects: Shaping the future with tradition and vision

XAMK University of Applied Sciences. Photo: Kuvatoimisto Kuvio

Masters of sustainable architecture

AOR has gained widespread recognition for its excellence in sustainable timber construction, expertly blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. A notable example is Tuusula High School and the Monio cultural space, one of Finland’s largest public timber buildings. The unpainted timber façade and interiors recall Finland’s historical log construction, yet the design is undeniably modern. “We aimed to revive this longstanding construction method, making it sleek and contemporary,” explains Ollila.

“With smaller projects, there’s more room to experiment with new techniques. Larger-scale projects bring greater challenges and demand scalable solutions, which we achieve through advanced industrial construction methods,” he continues. “Our work is rooted in traditional skills, but always with a focus on sustainability and natural materials.”

Tuusula High School and Cultural Centre lobby. Photo: Kuvatoimisto Kuvio

AOR’s commitment to sustainability, visionary design, and tradition has earned the team multiple awards, including the 2021 Finnish State Prize for Architecture and a finalist spot for the 2020 Royal Academy Dorfman Award. Beyond architecture, AOR is also actively involved in urban planning, shaping everything from intimate interventions to expansive urban developments.

By respecting the heritage of architecture while fearlessly embracing contemporary design challenges, AOR Architects is redefining Finland’s architectural landscape, one project at a time. “The next step is to take our expertise and knowledge beyond Finland’s borders, where we are constantly seeking opportunities to showcase our skills,” Ollila concludes.