Biocenter Oulu

Convertable laboratories and offices for a research centre in Oulu

Biocenter Oulu outlines the campus of uniform height and material. The wood of pines that opens towards the Southwest is preserved as a green oasis in the middle of the surrounding buildings. The extension is situated on the eastern side of the existing building. 

The working spaces are located around a series of inner yards with glazed roofs. The inner yard with its restaurants and exhibition areas forms a meeting place for researchers and students. It’s also easy to orientate inside the building since the main staircase is located centrally.

Vertical connections between the different parts of the building make it possible to share one individual floor with several users. Exhibition and hall spaces unite the extension with the existing building and its lobby.

The target of the long-lasting building was to create convertible laboratories and offices. Main materials used in facades are glass in various forms, light-coloured raw concrete and copper. Those materials are both timeless and beautifully ageing.