This addition replaces a damaged wing of an educational building in Kajaani with new offices and a breakroom for teachers.
A massive wooden structure was designed and implemented as a pilot project in Kajaani. We chose CLT because of the resulting simple structural system that has many benefits for the users when left exposed on the inside. In addition to aesthetic and haptic qualities, visible wooden surfaces also act as stress reducers and provide other psychological and physical benefits according to the latest studies. Produced locally from rapidly renewing forests, the structure serves as a carbon sink for the lifespan of the building.
The building consists of activity-based office spaces for teachers divided into sections with glass walls with quiet corners and a cozy lounge for breaks. Acoustically sealed units are used for private conversations or telephone calls while wooden acoustic ceilings and textile floors provide a peaceful work environment. Two balconies were designed for having a cup of coffee and some fresh air between classes.
The design of the roof line and extensive glazing on the street facade give the small public building a distinct profile. The interior courtyard has a more regular facade that connects the extension to the existing building.
The facade is made with flame retardant Siberian larch combined with recyclable aluminum sheeting for a durable exterior coating that changes its character depending on the point of view. This facade was the result of different experiments in designing a safe and durable facade that gives the impression of a contemporary public building while communicating the wooden construction and adapting to the existing architecture.