Haltia, Finnish Nature Center

Haltia is a new type of visitor center that brings Finland’s diverse nature together under one roof for visitors to enjoy through the building’s facilities and stunning exhibitions. The Haltia building was designed by architect Rainer Mahlamäki, who was inspired by the tales of Kalevala, the Finnish national epic. The design evokes a sense of man and nature coming together peacefully and harmoniously.

As Finland’s first public building made entirely with cross-laminated timber (CLT) elements, the center signals a new era in wooden buildings. The skillful design of Haltia’s facilities and activities and the use of the latest ecological solutions demonstrate a careful consideration of the environment.

Siparila TOPCOAT was chosen for Haltia’s façade because of its sustainability, durability and aesthetic appeal, with its cost effectiveness also playing a significant role when used for such a massive construction project.

The cladding’s hidden fastening, end-matching and fixed lengths offered savings and sped up the building process. Among other innovative features, the building is heated and cooled using energy drawn from the sun and the earth.