Architecture Walking Tour in English: 1970s Olari

In the 1960s Finland’s new economic prosperity led to the migration of many Finnish people from the countryside to towns and to a housing shortage. In new suburban developments, the infrastructure of whole new communities, including residences, shops, and daycare centers, was planned. Olari, designed by Simo Järvinen in the late 1960s, is based on a compact grid pattern. It separates pedestrian routes and car parking and follows dramatic hilly and rocky terrain. Our tour addresses (1) the ideas about neighborhood planning that influenced the design and the values that it seeks to promote, and (2) the construction methods and materials of the buildings. 

Architecture walking tours series is written and hosted by Gayle McKeen. She holds a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Chicago and has taught at universities in the United States and the United Kingdom. 

Participation

A total of 25 participants will be admitted to one architecture walking tour. Places are filled in the order of arrival. The card payment is collected at the starting point of the tour in advance (15 minutes before the start of the tour) with a portable payment terminal. Cash is not accepted as a means of payment. Please arrive in time before the start time of the tour – the tour starts at even hours.

Accessibility 

The tour starts
Simo Järvisen aukio, Suomelanraitti
02210 Espoo

The tour ends
Meteorinrata (near Olarinkatu), Kuitinmäki
02210 Espoo

Schedule:

Wednesday 5 July 2023 | at 16.00–18.00
Language: English | Tickets: 10/5/0 €

Wednesday 2 August 2023 | at 16.00–18.00
Language: English | Tickets: 10/5/0 €

Thursday 17 August 2023 | at 13.00–15.00 | Night of the Arts
Language: English | Tickets: Free of charge

The tours are held in English.

The walking tour takes place in urban public space and lasts about 2 hours. The total length of the route is about 2 kilometers. During the tour, there are several stairs and steps. The terrain is rocky and hilly with some uneven surfaces. On the walking tour, the progression is calm and includes several stops. There are no easily accessible seats or benches along the route. You can bring your own camping chair. There are no easily accessible public or gender-neutral toilets located nearby.