The first visible phase of the construction of Solar, the €20m extension of the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre in Finland, has been completed. The renewed southern main entrance of the Centre will be taken into use in conjunction with the SSIEM 2026 Congress, which begins 25 August, and next week’s design and interior Habitare fair. The new Solar event space on Messuaukio square, will be completed in autumn 2027.
Construction of Solar has advanced significantly over the summer and the building’s frame, touching 14m in some areas, is now in place.
With the completion of the first phase of construction, a new Messuaukio square entrance to the Expo will be opened for use.
“Construction of Solar is progressing according to plan, and the new event space has generated exceptionally strong interest among our customers. A substantial number of bookings have already been made. Solar will strengthen Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre as an international event venue,” said Veronica Lindholm, CEO of The Finnish Fair Corporation.
Designed by Davidsson Tarkela Siren Architects, the glass-structured building will, upon completion, combine a new architecture with striking contemporary digital surfaces. The project is being delivered in partnership with YIT and partners, including Siren, Sweco Structural Engineering, Äyräväinen Engineering and E-Plan Engineering.
Operations at Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre will continue uninterrupted throughout the construction period until autumn 2027. During events in autumn 2026 and spring 2027, visitors will primarily use the southern and northern entrances, while the western and eastern entrances will also be opened when necessary.
