The century-old Vallila Primary School is being renovated with respect for its history

Vallila Primary School, which was completed in 1902, is the oldest school in Helsinki still operating in its original building. For principal Jouni Koponen, the building has made a lasting impression on him ever since his childhood.

“I thought the red, castle-like brick building was architecturally striking,” reminisces Jouni Koponen.

However, the old and beautiful building was in need of extensive renovation. It had been around 50 years since the school had last undergone a complete refurbishment.

– It was clear that the building had reached the end of its life cycle and that we needed to rely on temporary solutions. The classroom technology was outdated and the school was cold. The school playground, which resembled more of a gravel field, had not been improved for several years and, despite major roads being nearby, there was no fencing. Nor was the school accessible.

The City of Helsinki decided to put the renovation out to tender as a so-called “sale and leaseback project”. Hemsö was awarded the project and acquired the school building from the city, which is now the tenant. The building was vacated in late autumn 2024 and renovation work began in January 2025.

– I’m not sure if the school has ever been completely vacated before. We found a huge number of items from the early 20th century, such as Art Nouveau cabinets and tarred skis from the 1920s.

Temporary premises in anticipation of the new school

Hemsö is conducting an extensive refurbishment of the school’s interior: structural elements are being repaired, surfaces are being renewed and all technical systems are being replaced. In addition, the roof is being replaced and the building is being connected to geothermal energy. Once the refurbishment is complete, the school will accommodate up to 450 pupils and 40 staff members.

Although daily life in the temporary premises has gone smoothly, both pupils and teachers are looking forward to starting the autumn term in the new premises.

– The overall feeling is one of relief that the refurbishment has finally begun. We expect a building that functions technically well, with good ventilation, the right indoor temperatures, good lighting and acoustics, and modern technology. Thanks to the extension, the school canteen will also be more pleasant and quieter.

Principal Jouni Koponen is particularly pleased that the outdoor areas are being renewed. As well as benefiting the pupils, the school grounds will also support young people’s leisure activities.

– Hemsö did an excellent job of involving our pupils in the design of the school playground. They organised workshops where the pupils were able to think about how the playground should function.

Vallila Primary School is located, as the principal puts it, “in the heart of the neighbourhood”. As a meeting place for the community, it attracts people from outside the school through various events, bringing together people of all ages.

– It is wonderful to be part of this historic context, but it also comes with a great deal of responsibility. We have traditions stretching back over a hundred years – and another hundred years ahead of us.

Smooth and clear communication

Hemsö has provided regular updates on the progress of the renovation. Communication has been handled via designated main contacts: the school principal on behalf of the school and Hemsö’s construction project manager, Heini Jokinen.

– Communication has been smooth and swift, and the collaboration straightforward and uncomplicated. We receive updates almost every week from the main contractor appointed by Hemsö, including photos showing how the work is progressing on site. In addition, Hemsö regularly shares information from the construction site with pupils and parents. Using text and images tailored to the target audience, they explain what is happening.

Jouni Koponen appreciates the way Hemsö is carrying out the project.

– I know the building is now being developed with great care. Hemsö is renovating it with respect for its history and a strong focus on quality, which is fantastic. We will have a modern building with a beautiful historical character, says Jouni Koponen.

– Most important of all, however, is the feeling that we are working towards a common goal: we all want a school where both children and adults feel at home.