Project aims to bring into discussion alternative, new or forgotten methods of developing concrete element suburbs. The complexity of sustainability is approached by focusing especially on methods that address several challenges in one act. Each method holds potential from e.g. both ecological, structural, architectural, economical and sociological point of view. As themes we talk of e.g. service or actor based development, housable not-heated buffer zones, partial dismantling of concrete element housing blocks and re-use of concrete elements.
As a result there will be a more vivid discussion at nation scale on Finnish concrete element suburbs. The imago of the theme of suburbs as such will be refreshed: concepts of suburbs that often are characterized by the problems appearing there will be challenged with pointing out the possible positive development narratives. There will be series of publications that each concentrate on one viewpoint as well as a publication summing the collage up. Aim is then to continue from each interesting method found to become an own, following, more detailed research or development project.
In Finland, the now starting process of renewing areas of concrete element suburbs is one of the biggest possibilities to move towards a more sustainable society. Most of this building stock is no longer technically feasible and these buildings consume more energy than on average in Finland. About one fifth of Finnish people live in these houses. Also the suburbs are not often part of the city structure in a way that would enable ecologically sustainable lifestyles. Concentrating on developing the sustainability in suburbs can have large-scale effects.
Duration from autumn 2009 until spring 2012
Project leader Hagan Harri, university teacher School of Architecture
Researchers School of Architecture: Elina Alatalo, Satu Huuhka & Department of Civil Engineering: Lahdensivu Jukka, Suonketo Jommi, Hilliaho Kimmo
Research assistants School of Architecture: Noona Lappalainen, Pekka Tynkkynen, Timo Silomaa, Tuomo Joensuu, Janne Järvinen, Joonas Tähtinen, Toni Husu & Department of Civil Engineering: Taru Pippuri
Funding by finnish Ministry of Environment as part of Program on Suburbs 2008-20011, coordinated by The Housing and Development Centre of Finland
Publications