The original Meri-Rastila school and chapel quarter, designed by Kaarlo Leppänen in 1993, served as the foundation for the design competition for the Meri-Rastila Multipurpose Centre. The competition aimed to explore and compare the benefits of redevelopment through demolition and reconstruction versus preservation-based construction in creating a new multipurpose building for the neighborhood. Located in a rapidly developing area with significant additional construction planned, the competition sought an expanded, community-oriented neighborhood center.

aDT collaborated with Lukkaroinen, Pontek, and Finnmap Infra to create a proposal centered on preserving as much of the original construction as possible while integrating new extensions with the existing school building and the Merirasti Chapel. Organized by the City of Helsinki in 2024, the competition jury awarded the proposal second prize for its thoughtful approach to harmonizing the new with the old.

The architectural concept is defined by three key elements: modernization of existing buildings, new multi-use structures that align with the environment’s color palette, and open spaces that seamlessly connect the old and the new.

The existing chapel and youth center, forming a well-scaled architectural pair, serve as a recognizable gateway to the block and a historical landmark, oriented towards the evolving Meri-Rastila Square. Between the preserved buildings, the new Cultural Square offers a vibrant communal focal point for the neighborhood.

The multipurpose building, designed to accommodate a school, daycare center, playground, youth center, and auxiliary home care facilities, prioritizes circular economy principles, adaptability, and community engagement. The design also emphasizes the simultaneous and flexible use of spaces for diverse activities beyond school hours, ensuring the building remains an active hub for the community.