Workplace development
Embassy of Finland, Beijing
Finnish design, international cooperation
Unique details in a sky-high building
The embassy of Finland in China’s capital, Beijing, was completed in the Spring of 2022 after years of precise design, planning and renovations. The embassy is located in the diplomatic district of Sanlitun, in a skyscraper towering up to 90 meters. Per request from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, we were privileged to work closely with HIMLA Architects and a design agency located in Beijing.
Our work in this project:
- Interior architecture and design
- Workplace consulting
- Inclusive and interactive co-development
Design ideas
that respect locality
The Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland and its design guidelines set the standards for the design. The space was to have three main purposes: diplomatic representation, consulate services and day-to-day office work. The design process paid close attention to the nature of the embassy’s work, the user’s needs, and strict security measures.
Finnish design in a skyscraper
Working remotely from Helsinki to Beijing was already an unusual experience, until half way through the project, Covid 19 -pandemic swept across the Globe. The exceptional project took some unexpected turns, and unlike the original plan, almost the entire construction phase was guided remotely from Finland. Frequent and open communication with the whole team contributed positively to the progression of the project.
The embassy is a harmonious combination of Finnish art and design and local craftsmanship. The large windows look down to the Liangma river and the lush, green parks of Sanlitun. The neutral, natural and high-quality interior is something to be proud of for the Finns working so far away from home.
Photos by Mi2
