Version of this project
The Aika stage, designed by Aalto University students Antti Hannula and Antti Rantamäki, is a demountable event stage constructed from mass timber. This innovative structure was created to celebrate Finland's centenary of independence and was showcased at the SuomiAreena public debate forum in 2017.
Aalto University and Stora Enso collaborated to create a unique architectural project in Finland. This collaboration has resulted in the Aika (meaing time in English) stage, designed for the public debate forum SuomiAreena, in celebration of Finland’s centenary of independence.
Design and Construction
The Aika stage is constructed using 50 cubic metres (m³) of laminated veneer lumber (LVL) frames, supported by 100 battons, symbolising Finland’s 100 years of independence. The design challenge was undertaken by students from Aalto University’s Department of Architecture, who were tasked with creating a high-quality, innovative stage using Stora Enso’s LVL material within 100 hours.
The winning design was submitted by landscape architecture students Antti Hannula and Antti Rantamäki.
Educational Impact
Aalto University is dedicated to educating future leaders who can integrate science, arts, and business in innovative ways. The Aika stage project exemplified this mission, highlighting the university’s close ties with industry and society.
Event Significance
The Aika stage was a central feature of the week-long SuomiAreena event, hosting a variety of activities beyond traditional panel debates. The stage featured cooking demonstrations, innovation showcases, business pitches, hackathons, and presentations of notable projects from the Finland 100 programme.
Technical Specifications
The Aika stage covers an area of 285 square metres and includes seating for 150 spectators. It is constructed from Stora Enso’s structurally strong LVL, produced in Varkaus, Finland, and is covered with translucent Vitrea profiled glass.
The stage was be located in front of the Sokos Hotel Vaakuna in Pori during the SuomiAreena forum from 10 to 14 July 2017. After the event, the stage was dismantled and relocated to Aalto University’s campus in Otaniemi, Espoo, to serve the university community and the public.
The Aika stage is a remarkable example of innovative architectural design and sustainable construction. It represents the successful collaboration between Aalto University and Stora Enso, celebrating Finland’s centenary of independence and showcasing the potential of renewable materials in modern architecture.
Publications
PUU Info
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| Area (m²) | 285 |
| Storeys | 1 |
| Units | 1 |
| Products and Services | LVL |
| Product volume (m³) | 50 |
| Developer | Aalto University’s Department of Architecture |
| Architect | Antti Hannula and Antti Rantamäki |