Asemapäällikönhovi Building

The Asemapäällikönhovi building is a commercial/residential property designed by architect Eino Tuompo and completed in 1976.

It’s internationally renowned for its distinct Brutalist architecture and is one of the most important works completed in this style in Finland. The building is a favorite among filmmakers and photographers. In 2020, it was featured on the Swedish show Advokaten. The building has a long history with media production, being home to a large television studio inaugurated by the Mayor of Helsinki in 1976.

In 1978, the studio produced the first subscription-based TV channel in Europe, and in 1982, the building became the first place in Europe to relay satellite broadcasts to a cable network. Finnish telecom operator DNA was founded in the building as Helsingin Kaapelitelevisio. Today, they continue to maintain a large presence inside.

The building contains 12 floors. Its load-bearing structure is entirely composed of concrete rather than prefabricated materials, an unusual sight in Finland. The 30 pilotis that the building’s residential wing sits atop are striking and draw comparisons to the work of Le Corbusier. The large satellite dishes on the roof of the residential tower have become a local landmark. Besides the TV studio, the building hosts 60 flats, a grocery store, a data center, offices, restaurants, and a self-storage facility.

A lesser-known area of the building can be found underneath Opastinsilta, just down the ramp from Asemapäällikönkatu toward the K-Market loading dock on the right. Under Opastinsilta is a cathedral of cast concrete with unique lighting and acoustics. It’s a popular place to take photos and has been featured in several music videos.

Asemapäällikönhovi is located in the district of Eastern Pasila.