Saukonpaasi park: A Maritime Sanctuary for Helsinki Residents

Saukonpaasi park was built on fill land in Jätkäsaari's old freight harbour area. The eastern part of the park, located between the residential blocks, serves as a green extension of the block yards. The western part is defined by a wide sea view with grasses and rock formations. The different parts of the 25,000 m² park form an orderly whole, with thoughtful and finely crafted details that appeal to the different senses.

Project objectives

The aim of the design was to create an attractive leisure area in a densely built urban environment along with a relaxing and safe neighbourhood park for park users. The park is designed for residents of the area of all ages, where they can observe nature and especially the sea. The design solutions have also been guided by the requirements of ease of maintenance and sustainability in terms of care and maintenance. 

Wooden sunbathing areas with sun loungers, picnic areas with benches and tables, and a variety of ornamental outdoor playgrounds are popular with residents. The seating stairs and open water swimming stairs built at the water's edge have also found their users as soon as the park opened. In addition, irrigation water and event power points have been built in the park, allowing, for example, temporary kiosks to be set up.

Sustainable environmental construction

The Saukonpaasi park has been built according to a sustainable environmental construction approach. This is particularly evident in the choice of materials and vegetation. Efforts have been made to create a windbreak and a favourable microclimate through the use of terrain and abundant vegetation planting.

Proximity to the sea was taken into account, using species from more rugged habitats and a wide variety of grasses. The eastern part has a garden-like richness, with an emphasis on spring and summer flowering plants. In between the different sections are plants with strong autumnal colours, while the western section represents the minimalism of winter. The seasonal zones give character to the different parts of the park and act as signs of the year's cycle.

Timeless landscape architecture

The plans for Saukonpaasi park were completed in 2009, and construction began after the completion of the first block of flats in 2012. The waterfront structures and approximately half of the eastern part of the park, where a small playground is located, were built first. In 2017, the eastern part of the park was redesigned to meet the changing design objectives of the area over the years and the wishes of the residents. Half of the western part of the park was completed in 2018 and the rest of the western and eastern parts of the park were completed in August 2021.

The landscape architectural thread of Saukonpaasi park has remained intact throughout the years and has been able to respond to changing needs and goals. The park is therefore a shining example of the importance of long-term planning and long-lasting solutions.