Location: Helsinki, Finland.

Architect: JKMM Architects.

The structure represents a substantial expansion and redesign of Helsinki’s historic cable factory. This was the location, for instance, where maritime cables were produced beginning in the early 1940s. The building was purchased by the City of Helsinki in the early 1990s, and today the Cable Factory is Finland’s largest cultural complex, housing hundreds of creative professionals and tenants in its museums, galleries, studios, and other spaces.

The Dancing House dramatically updates the past of the former factory and the area around it. The modern and the old are set in opposition to one another while also engaging in conversation. The 30-year-old cultural centre has undergone a significant renovation as a result of their input during the development project. The Dance House and the Cable Factory construct a significant destination, and together a revitalised neighbourhood.

Photo credit: Marc Goodwin, Hannu Rytky.