Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre (also known as Messukeskus) will begin construction in spring 2026 on a new €20m event space called Solar, due for completion in autumn 2027. The new venue is named after its glass-based design, letting in ample light, with plans to don solar panels for sustainability reasons.
Designed by Helsinki architects Davidsson Tarkela, Solar will span 1,500sqm with a ceiling height of almost 10 metres. It will be capable of hosting banquets of up to 500 guests or meetings for 1,000. When combined with other spaces at Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre, it will reportedly accommodate up to 1,200 persons for a dinner event.
The space will also be highly modern, in keeping with new Scandinavian architectural design, with digital surfaces, adaptable layouts and sustainability features including previously mentioned solar panels and recyclable materials. Solar will be accompanied by a full renovation of the venue’s main entrance and façade, set to be completed in autumn 2026. The Centre will remain operational during construction.
“Solar is a significant investment for the future,” Anni Vepsäläinen, CEO of Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre said. “When completed, it will be the most modern event space in the Nordic countries, where stunning architecture combines with space adaptability and cutting-edge technology. “One congress attendee typically spends about €2,000, so the impact of 5,000 guests is approximately €10m.”
Preliminary bookings have already begun, with formal sales for Solar opening in May.
