A group of Hawaiians visited Jätkäsaari, Helsinki, in mid-June. They explored the award-winning generations block at Länsisatamankatu 34 as part of a study tour on affordable housing.
The tour began in the courtyard: the Setlementtiasunnot rental building, a Hitas owner-occupied housing building, and a HOAS student housing building are located in the same courtyard area. Residents can move effortlessly from one building to another via the ground floor and use all common facilities.
The waste collection and recycling system with its underground pipes in the courtyard impressed the visitors. They were also curious to see the sauna, located on the top floor of the Setlementtitalo building, above the rooftops.
Civil defense shelters were a topic of discussion
The group visited the shared laundry room, resident lounge, gym, workshop, and band room.
– I appreciate the co-existence of many generations and resident groups in the block; it is very unique. I also like the clarity of the building and apartments, the high ceilings, and the common areas. It must be very pleasant to live here, noted Hakim Ouansafi, one of the visitors.
Civil defense shelters were a new concept for the visitors, prompting many questions. In Finland, they are mandatory by law. In the presented building, the civil defense shelter is used as a bicycle storage.
– Remember which country Finland shares a border with, explained Kenna StormoGipson, who served as the Hawaiian group’s tour leader, regarding the civil defense shelters.
Communal facilities received praise
During the tour, it became clear that rents in Hawaii are approximately three times higher than those of Setlementtiasunnot. Jarmo Lindén, Director of the Housing Finance and Development Centre (ARA), was present during the visit. He explained the practices by which the state supports rental housing in Finland.
– At Setlementtiasunnot, each building has a housing coordinator whose task is to provide housing counseling and strengthen community spirit. This is their office, explained Juuso Lökfors, who served as the guide, as the tour neared its end.
Of particular interest to the group were the services of the housing coordinator. These support people in difficult life situations and transitional phases when needed.
– We don’t have these services in Hawaii. It’s also interesting that all residents are equal. We differentiate people by race and income. The buildings themselves are from another world – their architecture is beautiful, said Summer Lee Yadao and Desiree Graham.
