Shortlist of the 2015 Finlandia Prize of Architecture

The Finlandia Prize of Architecture is back for its second year with a new shortlist. Established last year by the Finnish Assocation of Architecture, the prize celebrates contemporary Finnish architecture in recognizing new or renovated projects that exhibit a high caliber of design excellence and were completed in the last three years. The prize acknowledges both Finnish and non-Finnish architects and firms for a project built within Finland or abroad.

This year's shortlist includes five distinct projects designed by architects representing several generations, from professionals working since the 1960s to the 2000s. Last year, the Museum of the History of Polish Jews by Lahdelma & Mahlamäki Architects in Warsaw scored the prize.

Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho will pick the 2015 winning project, which will be announced later this year.

Get a glimpse of the shortlisters below.

Merenkulkijanranta in Lauttasaari, Helsinki by Arkkitehdit NRT Oy

Project summary: "The Merenkulkijanranta block sits on a seafront plot at the intersection of nature and urbanity in Lauttasaari, Helsinki. Construction has been carried out    in several stages since 2008, with the last building completed in 2015. According to the pre-selection jury, the buildings reach out over the sea like the fingers of a hand. Under the buildings run a public footpath underlining the Finnish tradition of reserving the shoreline for public use."

Kangasala Art Center by Heikkinen-Komonen Architects

Project summary: "Standing next to a stone church, Kangasala House nicelye rounds off the town's centre. In the view of the pre-selection jury, this cultural centre completed in 2015 is fresh and innovative in combining various functions: a multipurpose auditorium, art museum, and the chambers of the municipal council and board. Inside, this stately concrete edifice divides into well-lit meandering 'canyons' created by the light-colored lobby spaces."

Opinmäki School Complex in Espoo by Esa Ruskeepää Architects

Project summary: "Completed in 2015, the Opinmäki School in Espoo is a central public building in Suurpelto, a new residential development still under construction. The building  houses a daycare centre,  an upper-level and lower-­level comprehensive school, a library, a sports hall, a workers’ institute and youth services facilities.  The  building is in active use throughout the day and serves the entire population of the district. The large building is a defining element in the  structure of the district set in an expansive rural landscape, creating a common public area accessible for all."

OP House in Vallilat, Helsinki by JKMM Architects

Project summary: "Completed in 2015, the OP House puts the finishing touch to a large urban block in the Vallila district, Helsinki. According to the pre-selection jury, the triangular openings or 'cracks' give a nice rhythm to the large volume of mass. At the centre of the block there is a high, well-lit space comprising conference rooms, restaurants, cafés and wellbeing services. The working environment is characterized by light and a sense of a unique experience. A diversity of historical layers adds a complementary touch to the complex."

Puukuokka in Kuokkala, Jyväskylä by OOPEAA Office for Peripheral Architecture

Project summary: "Puukuokka, an eight-storied timber-framed residential building in Kuokkala, Jyväskylä serves as a prime example of how to create original and individualistic housing design using new production and manufacturing techniques. The spacious stairwell offers a splendid view of the surrounding landscape creating a unique architectonic atmosphere in the heart of the building. OOPEAA Office for Peripheral Architecture designed the building, which was completed in 2014."