Lappeenranta Main Library
Customer: Lappeenrannan Toimitilat Oy (LATO)
Location: Valtakatu 47, Lappeenranta
Completed: 2025
Area: bruttoala 5290 brm2
Located in the heart of the Lappeenranta city centre, the Lappeenranta Main Library was designed by architect Erkki Pasanen and completed in 1974. The building represents the nationally significant Finnish library architecture style of the 1960s and 1970s and is an integral part of the cityscape. Over the years, use of the library has grown considerably, becoming a favourite gathering spot for residents of Lappeenranta as well as a place for spending leisure time and work. The building utilities had reached the end of their useful life and the facilities needed updating.
Completed in 2025, the renovation was an exceptionally demanding project that skilfully combined the old with the new. After the renovation was completed, the library was dubbed Parvi and the building was given protected status in the city plan. The original appearance of the building was retained in the architectural design: the concrete surfaces cast with board moulds were preserved, the surface structures of the façade were refurbished and the roof was repaired. The roof, which is a special feature of the four-storey building frame, and its numerous skylights were refurbished, making the interior space light and airy. Broad staircases were preserved and refurbished, and rails were added to the stairs of the lending mezzanine, thus improving safety and accessibility.
The building utilities were completely overhauled and, their integration with the existing structure proved to be especially challenging. In addition, energy-efficiency and carbon-neutrality were emphasised in accordance with the city’s environmental targets.
Accessibility was a key objective of the renovation and Parvi was awarded an honorary mention in accessibility in 2025. The Disability Council and accessibility working group participated in the design from the beginning of the project. The building premises, entrances and services have all been designed to make moving about the library and conducting business there easier for all library user groups. Accessibility solutions have been implemented everywhere, from doors and stairs to service desks, toilet facilities and furniture. Visually-impaired library users are assisted by voice guides and Braille, in addition to which the colour palette, acoustics and parking arrangements all promote the accessible use of the library. The biggest changes were made to the basement section of the building, where there is now direct access to the parking garage.
User-friendliness and functionality were emphasised in the library renovation. Group, work and hobby spaces were also added. The effective use of acoustics and space was developed. In accordance with the wishes of city residents, the nature of Lake Saimaa can be enjoyed through the glass and mural work of artists Irina Raski and Teemu Heikkinen, making nature an integral part of the everyday library experience.