Updated Dipoli opens on Aalto University campus

Dipoli building has been refurbished into a low threshold meeting place for all of Aalto University and a shared main building.  It contains work spaces, an auditorium, halls, restaurants, exhibition spaces and art. The main building's public areas are open to everyone at Aalto as well as the general public.

Aalto University's display window

The university's activities are on show in the building's halls and exhibition spaces as well as in the form of different events. Aalto students, personnel and partners all took part in creating Dipoli's operational concept and vision. Art created by the university's alumni will be put on display during the autumn in the building's public areas.

The unique building was the first joint design project by architects Raili and Reima Pietilä. Dipoli was completed in 1966. The building was initially owned by the Student Union of the Helsinki University of Technology. For many years, it was the hub of the student union's cultural activities and was known for its broad-scoped range of events. Aalto University purchased the building in 2014.

The great hall, Kaleva, has hosted many memorable events and celebrations over the years.

Unique architecture

Dipoli has undergone an extensive technical and spatial renovation. Geothermal heat supplies nearly 50 per cent of the building's energy requirements.

'The renovation project respects the Pietiläs' original design and the building's unique architecture. The building's skylights and fireplaces have been refurbished, stairwells, which have at some point in time been cut off, have been reopened and the original concrete surfaces have been restored,' explains Antti Ahlava, Vice President, campus development. 

The university's management as well as part of its personnel numbering a total of 140 persons will work in Dipoli. New ways of working, activity-based offices and digital tools will be tested in the building.

Dipoli will provide new types of opportunities for cooperation between Aalto students, its personnel and the university's partners. In August, Aalto University's partner Technology Academy Finland TAF will move into Dipoli.

Versatile restaurants and cafés

A versatile restaurant world is about to open in Dipoli. The range of options will include student and staff restaurant Reima, a bistro and cafés, as well as Metso, a restaurant with an à la carte menu. The restaurants are operated by Fazer.

The renovation has also seen events organisation at Dipoli go through an overhaul. The building will now predominantly host the university's own events, but facilities will also be leased to outside parties.

Natural stone walls characterise the architecture of Dipoli.

Chief architect and architectural design: ALA Architects
Interior design: Tuuli Sotamaa
Contractor: NCC Construction

Address: Otakaari 24, Otaniemi, Espoo, Finland

Photos: Aalto University/Tuomas Uusheimo

More information:
Vice President Antti Ahlava, antti.ahlava@aalto.fi, tel. +358 50 324 1179
Communications Manager Anu Salmi-Savilampi, media contact person, visits and photos, anu.salmi-savilampi@aalto.fi, tel. +358 50 464 4585

Facility sales: facility.sales@aalto.fi

Photos: Aalto University/Tuomas Uusheimo