State Prize for Architecture to Verstas Architects

Helsinki-based Verstas Architects was founded in 2004 by four architects: Väinö Nikkilä, Jussi Palva, Riina Palva and Ilkka Salminen. The group has earned a reputation for its exceptionally high-quality new school architecture that, alongside quality pedagogy, is one of the fundamental factors in the success story of Finnish schools.

In addition to learning environments, Verstas Architects designs environments for care services. Verstas Architects has placed first in many competitions, most recently for the Lapland Central Hospital (Rovaniemi, Finland) and the Aalto University Central Campus (Espoo, Finland). Their architecture is creatively novel while drawing on the best traditions of Finnish architecture, creating sensitive and humane design that lights up everyday environments.

The state prize was awarded by the National Council for Architecture, Design and Environmental Art. The prize award ceremony hosted by Minister of Education and Culture Sanni Grahn-Laasonen took place on 19 November at the Government Banquet Hall Smolna.