Tuulia Nikula is the Young Landscape Architect of the Year

Landscape architect Tuulia Nikula promotes the visibility and role of landscape architecture in land-use planning in environments where the field is still establishing itself. She works in Northern Finland and has rapidly built up a wealth of experience working with various stakeholders in landscape architecture firms, the consulting sector, and the municipal sector.

The award was presented 2 October, 2026, in the 80th anniversary celebration of the Finnish Association of Landscape Architects. The purpose of the award is to highlight a talented and inspiring professional who brings a fresh and open-minded perspective to landscape architecture.

Nikula’s high-quality master’s thesis examines the relationship between sparsely populated Finland and landscape architecture. The thesis identifies ways in which landscape architecture can support the smart adaptation of municipalities by offering solutions for managing vacant buildings, brownfields, and demolition sites. This thesis was reviewed at Aalto University in 2025.

The thesis uses the center of Sotkamo town as a case study. The topic is timely, and the chosen perspective is refreshing and much needed. The thesis demonstrates the significant role landscape architecture can play in the development of shrinking municipalities. In the unique environment of Northern Finland, landscape architects have much work to do in building networks and updating traditional operating models.

Nikula has demonstrated perseverance, a collaborative spirit, and the courage to blaze new trails. Her work is vital for the future of the entire field: she contributes her expertise beyond the urban centers of Finland and strengthens the impact of landscape architecture throughout the country. Nikula serves as a role model for young professionals: her courage, perseverance, and ability to see opportunities in challenging circumstances strengthen the impact of the entire field in Finland, the award citation states.