The project called GRO House involves the restoration and modernisation of the historic building of former Finnish Girls’ School, originally completed in 1884 and located at Yrjönkatu 18, in the embrace of the Old Church Park in Helsinki. The GRO House is taking shape as a place open to everyone: A new inspiring living room where people can meet, work, learn, create, experience, and discuss. GRO’s doors will open in 2027.

The building will undergo extensive renovation and expansion to accommodate new purposes. The building’s original classrooms, halls, and foyers showcase clean, well-defined lines and adaptable layouts, making them ideal for transformation into versatile spaces for work, learning, and exhibitions. The renovation respects the building’s architectural heritage, with updates enhancing its grand interiors while adapting them for contemporary use.

A wooden sculptural extension will be constructed within the courtyard. This addition not only elevates the site’s aesthetic appeal but also enhances its functionality. This new structure will house a state-of-the-art auditorium, designed to host a variety of events and gatherings. Architecturally, the wooden extension creates a harmonious dialogue between the historic building and a forward-looking, modern design, bridging past and future.

The ground floor will serve as a dynamic public area, offering seminar rooms, workshops, exhibition spaces, a café, and the new auditorium, all designed to foster community engagement. The upper floors will offer flexible office spaces for tenants, along with shared work areas to support collaboration. At the building’s heart, the ballroom—its most distinguished space—will be revitalised as a central hub, a “living room” where users can gather to collaborate and share ideas.

The architectural vision for the GRO House combines bold, contemporary design with a respectful restoration of the building’s historic features, creating a harmonious balance of both heritage and innovation.