Hidden treasure — a chance to take a break from the weight of the world
Hidden treasure — a chance to take a break from the weight of the world
The expedition begins as a traveler lands on the Arctic Blue Resort Kontiolahti. Arriving via the lake one can see the unique landscape which hides the buildings of the leisure center. The newly finished master plan of the area paints a big picture utilizing nature as much as possible. Peaceful nature is today’s luxury, so the natural feel of the area will be preserved. Everyone gets their peace and quiet in different parts of the area. This place could also provide a paradise for remote working in the future.
“This is a very unique and new concept. The place is easy to reach from all over the world and yet you have your privacy. There’s a lake view and deep green forest — all in the same place. Although we are talking about a large complex of buildings, nature and landscape will be preserved as much as possible. The buildings will be hidden into the landscape and the hotel can be faded into the hill, thanks to differences in elevation.“
Matti Ponkala
COE, Ponkala Architects Ltd
(Arkkitehtitoimisto Ponkala Oy)
Masterplan of the area enables diverse building
Diversity has been taken into consideration in the master plan made by Ponkala Architects Ltd. Its strong point is that the area can be developed in stages and one section does not have to be finished before the next one can be started. The buildings in the resort complex can be of different types and sizes. The master plan even makes it possible to build each block differently.
The first model houses planned for this area are a strong match with the Arctic Blue Resort brand and concept, and they provide a preview of what is to come. The buildings that come afterwards are given their final shape by architect planning.
The surroundings provide a unique setting for a perfect getaway
A small private beach oasis. In the master plan, the buildings by the beach are placed as if they have been dropped in the middle of the forest, so that nature has to be changed only the bare minimum. The beach is only a short distance from facilities and the sports field.
Small communities are formed in the plan to inland blocks that can have park-like and year-round living. Run-off rain water will be collected into small ponds between the blocks. It would be possible, for example, for several families to rent a whole block to themselves. The blocks would also be ideal for athletic teams.
Arctic Blue Resort Kontiolahti enables new innovations
Eco-friendliness is used as a guideline for the area and offers a great possibility to try something new. Compensating for the carbon footprint has been integrated into the plan of how the resort operates. Trees will be preserved as much as possible — after all, they are an excellent carbon sink. Eco-friendliness can be taken into consideration in building materials as well as in the use of renewable energy. The goal is to keep transportation distances short and therefore suppliers from the surrounding areas will be used whenever possible. Within the area, people are encouraged to travel on foot, by bike, by electric vehicles — or why not give skiing a go.
For more information on the masterplan of the area:
Matti Ponkala, CEO
Ponkala Architects Ltd (Arkkitehtitoimisto Ponkala Oy)
+358 400 668 555