The project The Forest Glade (Metsäaukio in Finnish) is a public school and kindergarten inspired by its lush, natural surroundings in the Helsinki suburb of Tapulikaupunki.

The school functions are divided into a series of smaller wooden building units, helping young students feel at home in their own space. The circular courtyard, named The Forest Glade, is the center of the school and serves as a social meeting point where students and local residents can meet, learn and participate in events.

Students and teachers have visual contact with greenery throughout the school, which has been shown in numerous scientific studies to aid concentration, well-being, and creativity. The landscape design aims to preserve as much of the existing vegetation and topography as possible, while enhancing the natural character of the area with local plants from the Finnish forest.

The park-like schoolyard is divided into active and calm areas. Closest to the school are a series of learning gardens and a teaching pavilion that support outdoor learning and strive to strengthen children's understanding and care for nature.

Local timber is used for the school's structure, façade, and interior. This material has a long history in Nordic building tradition, and its tactile qualities create inviting and calming spaces for students of all ages.

The vertical pattern of the timber façade was inspired by the local forest, creating a dynamic interplay between nature and building to reinforce the concept of a school in the forest. The five façade typologies of the school’s wooden building units highlight the unique character and program of each unit, aiding wayfinding for students and residents.

Competition Jury:

“The jury considers the winning proposal to be highly commendable, particularly in terms of landscape design and urban ecology. At the heart of the proposal is nature, seamlessly extending into the building’s interior. The forest clearing at the center of the multi-purpose building creates a tranquil outdoor space, bringing natural light inside while enhancing the diversity of outdoor areas as learning environments—supporting the school's educational vision.”