Urbanism cartographies and

social innovation

University: Pontificia Universidad Javeriana

Group: Marianna Cuellar-Sebastián Serrano-Mariana Gonzalez
Project: Finland and Helsinki context
Professor: Alexandra Ortiz Gomez

Index:

Objective of the report

Finland
Location
• Nordic history
• Characteristics
• Life style
Helsinki
Location
Physical characteristics
• Demography
• Population (By age, in time)
• Urban foot print
• Mains centres of activities
• Neighbourhoods
• Suburbs
• Architecture landmarks
Conclusion
Bibliography
1
Objective of the Abstract
report Throughout the investigation of the
conditions of Finland specifically
Helsinki is precise to acknowledge how
The main aim of the project is to take into a count and the demography and location
apprehend the diverse climatic, cultural and contextual influences in the development of the
conditions that involved developing a construction in a activities and lifestyles that be in the
Nordic country and the opportunities that this can place. However, there’s plenty of
provide. Moreover, the architectural implications to be factors that give as enough information
aware such as colours and design, as a form, to about the best form to abord de topic,
produce an accurate arrangement that respond to the such as the mains centres of activities,
objective of the place and the concourse. what kind of hobbies they have, the
nodical history to catch important
aspect that contributed to the actual
development, the neighbourhoods,
suburbs and people that live and
surround that area and how they
influence in the space.
2
Physical Characteristics:
Breathtaking landscapes: Finland is a
wonderland of nature, with sprawling forests,
Characteristics and shimmering lakes, and dramatic archipelagos.
The Northen lights paints the night sky with
mesmerizing colours during winter.
demography Lifestyle:
Nature-centric finns cherish their connection to
nature, spending leisure time hiking, fishing,
(Finland) skiing, and enjoying the outdoors. The concept
of "everyman's right" allows free access to
most public and private land for recreation.
Finland prioritizes well-being, providing high-
Is a nation nestled in Northern Europe, boasts a quality healthcare, education, and social
rich tapestry of history, unique characteristics, security, fostering a sense of equality and
and a captivating lifestyle. community. Finland beckons with its
captivating blend of natural beauty, rich
Location: history, and unique culture. It's a haven for
Occupying the eastern portion of Fennoscandia, nature lovers, design enthusiasts, and those
Finland shares borders with Sweden, Norway, seeking a peaceful, balanced lifestyle.
and Russia. Its vast territory, dotted with over
187,000 lakes and islands, stretches from the Weather:
Gulf of Finland in the south to the Arctic Ocean Climate: Boreal (cold winters, mild summers)
in the north. Average temperature:
Helsinki: January -5°C (23°F), July 17°C
Nordic History: (63°F)
Finland's past intertwines with its Nordic Northern Finland: January -15°C (5°F), July
neighbours, marked by Viking influences, 15°C (59°F)
Swedish rule, and a period of Grand Duchy Precipitation:
hood under the Russian Empire. The nation Helsinki: 670 mm (26.4 in) per year
gained independence in 1917 and has since Northern Finland: 450 mm (17.7 in) per year,
flourished as a democratic republic, renowned
for its social welfare system and commitment to Topography:
peace. Mainly flat with some rolling hills and lakes in
the south.
Urban Footprint: Highest point: Halti (1,324 m / 4,344 ft) in the
Total area: 338,145 km² northwest.
Urban area: Approximately 8,000 km² (2.4% of Numerous islands and skerries along the
total area) coastline.
Largest city: Helsinki (population: 658,245)
Hydrography:
Over 187,000 lakes, covering 10% of the
country's surface area.
Major lakes: Saimaa, Päijänne, Inarijärvi.
Extensive network of rivers flowing into the
Baltic Sea, Arctic Ocean, and White Sea.
Coastline stretches for over 1,100 km (684 mi)
along the Baltic Sea.
 centre, the Kamppi district, the Kallio district,
and the Jätkäsaari district. The city centre is
home to many of the city's most important
historical and cultural attractions, while the
Kamppi district is a major shopping and
business district. Kallio is a popular
residential and nightlife district, while

Helsinki
Jätkäsaari is a developing waterfront district
with a mix of residential, commercial, and
cultural uses.

Neighbourhoods: Helsinki is divided into

several dozen neighbourhoods, each with its
own unique character. Some of the most
popular neighbourhoods include
Punavuori, Eira, Kaartinkaupunki, Töölö, and
Kumpula.

Urban Footprint:
Total area: 213 km²
Population: 658,245 (as of 2023)
Compact city center with suburbs stretching
outwards.

Weather:
Similar to Finland's overall climate, but
Helsinki is the capital and largest city of slightly milder due to its coastal location.
Finland, situated on the southern coast of Average temperature:
the country in the region of Uusimaa. January -3°C (27°F)
July 18°C (64°F)
Precipitation: 670 mm (26.4 in) per year
Location: Helsinki is located on the
southern coast of Finland, facing the Baltic Topography:
Sea. The city is situated on a peninsula Mostly flat with several islands and rocky
and is surrounded by numerous islands. peninsulas.
Demographics: Highest point: Korkeasaari Island (56 m / 184
ft)
Population: As of 2023, Helsinki has a
population of approximately 664,000 National Government:
inhabitants. The city is home to a diverse Foreign policy and defence
population, with people from over 180 National economy, including taxation and
different countries living there. public spending
Healthcare, education, and social welfare
Age distribution: The population of Infrastructure development and
Helsinki is relatively young, with about environmental protection
17% of the population under the age of 18 Maintaining law and order
and 20% between the ages of 18 and 34.

Urban footprint: The urban footprint of

 Helsinki:

3
Political
organization/
Government

Type: Municipality

Helsinki City Hall

Executive Body: Mayor (currently Juhana
Vartiainen) - Leads the city administration,
proposes policies, and represents Helsinki on
official occasions.
Finland:
Legislative Body: City Council (59 members) -
System: Parliamentary Republic Elected by popular vote every four years, enacts
laws, approves budgets, and oversees the Mayor's
Head of State: President (currently Alexander Stubb) - activities.
Responsible for foreign policy, representing Finland
abroad, and serving as Commander-in-Chief of the Regional Authority: Uusimaa Region - Handles
armed forces. matters like regional planning and transportation
that affect Helsinki and surrounding areas.
Head of Government: Prime Minister (currently Petteri Responsibilities:
Orpo) - Leads the government, sets its agenda, and
oversees its policies. City Council:
Enacting local laws and regulations
Legislative Body: Parliament of Finland (Eduskunta) - Approving the city budget Overseeing the Mayor's
200-member unicameral body that enacts laws, administration Deciding on major investments and
approves budgets, and holds the government development projects
accountable.
City Executive Officers:
Local Government: 309 municipalities, each with an Implementing City Council decisions Managing
elected council and mayor, handling local matters like day-to-day operations of city departments
education, social services, and infrastructure. Preparing proposals for the City Council
Responsibilities:
Mayor:
Leading the city government
Proposing policies to the City Council Representing
Helsinki nationally and internationally

Strategy Planning:
City Strategy: Long-term vision for Helsinki's
development, outlining key goals and priorities.
Revised every four years.
4
Pubic services
Water and Sanitary: Solid Waste Collection:

Finland: Finland:
Water supply and sanitation are mostly Waste collection is typically organized by
handled by municipal companies. Drinking municipalities. Sorting and recycling are
water quality is generally very good throughout mandatory nationwide, with different bins for
Finland. In rural areas, some individual different materials. Composting is also
households have private wells and septic encouraged. Landfill disposal is minimized.
systems.
Helsinki:
Helsinki: HSY manages waste collection in Helsinki.
HSY (Helsinki Region Environmental Services) Residents separate waste into several
provides water supply and wastewater categories like biowaste, paper, plastic, and
treatment for the Helsinki metropolitan area. metal. Collection points are readily available,
They also handle stormwater management and residents pay based on how much waste
and waste collection. The water quality in they produce.
Helsinki is excellent, meeting stringent EU
standards. Telecommunications:

Transport: Finland:
Finland has a highly developed
Finland: telecommunications infrastructure with
Public transport system consists of trains, widespread access to high-speed internet
buses, trams, and ferries, particularly focused and mobile data. There are several major
on major cities. There's a national railway mobile network operators offering
network and efficient bus connections across competitive services.
the country. Many Finns also rely on bicycles
for short trips. Helsinki:
The city boasts excellent internet connectivity
Helsinki: with fiber optic networks reaching most
Helsinki has a comprehensive public transport areas. Mobile coverage is excellent
network with trams, buses, metro, and ferries. throughout the city. Several internet service
Ticketing is integrated across these modes, providers offer various plans to suit different
making travel seamless. Cycling is popular, needs.
with extensive bike lanes and infrastructure.
5
Urban amenities Cultural:

Finland:
Rich cultural heritage with strong emphasis on
Education:
music, design, and visual arts. Numerous
museums, theatres, and concert halls.
Finland:
UNESCO World Heritage sites like
Highly regarded education system with strong
Suomenlinna fortress.
emphasis on equality and accessibility. Free
public education through university level.
Helsinki:
Strong performance in international PISA
Vibrant cultural scene with theatres, museums,
rankings.
concert halls, galleries, and festivals dedicated
to diverse art forms. Design museums
Helsinki:
showcasing Finnish design achievements.
Wide range of public and private schools at all
Lively music scene with various genres
levels. Universities and research institutions
represented.
with international reputations, like the
University of Helsinki. Bilingual programs
Public Space:
available.
Finland:
Health:
Strong emphasis on creating accessible and
inclusive public spaces. Parks, forests, and
Finland:
waterfronts are well-maintained and readily
Universal healthcare system with high-quality
available. Emphasis on nature connection and
services and low out-of-pocket costs.
urban sustainability.
Emphasis on preventative care and public
health.
Helsinki:
Numerous parks and green spaces like
Helsinki:
Sibelius Park, Töölö Bay, and Kaivopuisto
Numerous hospitals and clinics offering
offering recreational opportunities. Extensive
comprehensive healthcare services.
network of cycle paths and walkways
Specialized medical centres available. Strong
promoting active travel. Public squares and
focus on mental health and wellbeing.
waterfront promenades providing social
gathering spaces.
Sports:

Finland:
Sports play a significant role in Finnish culture.
Popular activities include winter sports (skiing,
ice hockey), running, football, and various
outdoor pursuits.

Helsinki:
Extensive network of public sports facilities
like swimming pools, ice rinks, sports parks,
and gyms. Numerous sports clubs and
organizations cater to different interests.
Hosting of major sporting events (Olympics,
Formula One).
 Finland National Comparison:

GDP per capita: €49,300 (2021)

Main Sectors:
Services: 72.7% (similar to Helsinki)
Manufacturing and refining: 25.4%
(lower than Helsinki, focusing on
chemicals and paper)

6
Primary sector: 2.0% (similar to
Helsinki)
Finland's GPP per capita:

Similar to Helsinki, Finland's strong

Economy service sector suggests a potentially
higher GPP per capita than its GDP
figure..
comparison in European Capitals:
Strategy Planning:
Comparing GDP per capita across National development strategies: Focus
European capitals can be tricky due to on areas like: Innovation and economic
different economic structures and competitiveness
accounting methods. Some cities with high Sustainable development and climate
GDP per capita: change mitigation
Education and skills development
Luxembourg: €129,200 (2021) Social inclusion and equality
Zurich: €88,100 (2021) Government programs: Specific plans to
Dublin: €86,800 (2021) achieve strategic goals, approved by
Helsinki: €66,100 (2021) Parliament and implemented by ministries.
However, GPP per capita data for
individual cities is often unavailable or
unreliable.

Focus on Helsinki:

GDP per capita: €66,100 (2021)

Main Sectors:
Services: 72.7% (financial services, ICT,
professional services)
Manufacturing and refining: 31.4%
(forestry, machinery, metals)
Primary sector: 2.9% (agriculture, forestry,
fishing)
Helsinki's GPP comparison:

While direct GPP comparisons are

unavailable, Helsinki's strong service
sector performance suggests a potentially
higher GPP per capita than its GDP figure.
7
Conclusion
In conclusion, Helsinki stands as a Culturally, Helsinki offers a diverse
vibrant and dynamic capital city, array of experiences, from world-class
deeply rooted in Finland's rich cultural museums and theaters to lively
heritage and characterized by its festivals and music scenes, reflecting
strong emphasis on innovation, the city's vibrant and cosmopolitan
sustainability, and inclusivity. character. Its economic strength,
Throughout this report, we have driven by a thriving service sector and
explored various aspects of Helsinki's a tradition of innovation, positions
urban fabric, from its geographical Helsinki as a key player in the
location and demographic European economy, despite challenges
composition to its governance in direct GDP per capita comparisons.
structure, public services, cultural
offerings, and economic landscape.

Helsinki's strategic coastal position As Helsinki continues to evolve and

and well-connected transportation grow, it remains dedicated to fostering
infrastructure make it a hub of activity, a high quality of life for its residents,
attracting residents and visitors alike promoting social cohesion, and
to its bustling city center and serene embracing opportunities for
waterfronts. The city's commitment to sustainable development and urban
sustainability is evident in its emphasis innovation. With its blend of tradition
on accessible public spaces, extensive and modernity, Helsinki is not only a
green areas, and efficient waste capital city but also a beacon of
management practices. inspiration for cities around the world
striving to create vibrant, inclusive, and
resilient urban environments.