Makasiiniranta is one of the most central and historically significant waterfront areas in Helsinki. The aim is to create a functionally diverse urban waterfront that will stand the test of time, support the future role of the South Harbour as part of the central urban area and strengthen the area's role as a shared space for residents.
A new architecture and design museum and the Saaret project, consisting of four buildings with hotel, office and commercial space, are planned for the area. The detailed plans for the projects were approved by the Urban Environment Committee on 12 May and will now progress to the City Board and City Council for processing.
Walkable city centre to expand
Makasiiniranta will be transformed into a pleasant public space that will complement the waterfront route around the Helsinki peninsula from Kauppatori to Kaivopuisto. The coastal route will be moved closer to the water, and seating areas and suitable facilities for events will be created in the area.
With the relocation of the port operations, the shore area will become an open, welcoming and vibrant urban waterfront. At the same time, the area's streets and utilities will be renewed. The entire waterfront will be covered with diverse vegetation and trees. Rescue equipment will be placed on the piers.
A new pedestrian lane will be built in Eteläranta on the west side of the Kauppahalli market hall, which will result in one driving lane being removed at the market hall. Deciduous trees and a variety of vegetation will be planted along the eastern edge of Laivasillankatu. The existing cycling path and pedestrian lane will be improved.
The new Eteläsatamanaukio square will have a water feature, diverse vegetation and trees, as well as sheltered seating areas for different user groups. The square will also serve as a venue for a variety of events with the option to adjust pillar lamps in the square according to the needs of the event, for example.
Stormwater management has also been taken into account in the design. Efforts will be made to retain stormwater runoff in planting areas and to treat it with filter solutions. The re-use of existing stones and other materials will also be explored.
Implementation in stages
The area will be renewed in stages, as the southern part is still used by the Port of Helsinki. Port operations will only move out of the southern part of the area when the West Harbour tunnel is completed and scheduled Stockholm traffic is moved to Katajanokka.
The northern part, which will be freed from port use, will be built in the first phase together with the associated new recreational areas and event facilities. The architecture and design museum and the two Saaret buildings are scheduled for completion in 2030.
Explore the plans and get involved
The draft street plans are available for viewing online until 9 June. The drafts will be presented at an open event on Tuesday 2 June at 16.30–18.00 at Helsinki City Hall’s Event Square (Pohjoisesplanadi 11–13).
After the presentation, it will be possible to discuss the plans and the arrangements during construction with project specialists. The presentation can also be watched live on the Helsinki Channel.
The draft street plans will be available for viewing in autumn 2026. The aim is to have them approved by the Urban Environment Committee in late 2026, so that construction could start in spring 2027.