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SSAB steel helps make 100-meter beams of new Helsinki library a stunning sight
August 24, 2017 9:45 CEST 6 min read
The long-awaited Central Library Oodi is being built in a prime location in the city center of Helsinki, Finland, situated between the Central Railway Station and Helsinki Music Centre. The library’s frame features steel beams stretch into the sky and are roughly 100 meters long. These eye-catching beams have been constructed using steel plate strips and cuttings supplied by SSAB.
YIT is the lead building contractor and Normek Oy is the subcontractor responsible for the steel structures. SSAB supplied Normek with the steel used in the frame structures. Normek then welded the steel arches from these strips and cuttings with numerous passes to create an artistic result that resembles a large lattice structure. In the final stage of construction, the steel frame will be hidden under wood cladding. The library will have a façade of wood and glass.
Designed by Helsinki architect firm ALA Oy, Helsinki Central Library is scheduled for completion in late 2018. When completed, this three-story building will be a public space for people to meet and spend time. In addition to an extensive range of books, the library will also feature a film theater, extensive recreation, work and exhibition premises and even a sauna section.