Helsinki City Hall block to be renovated in 2028–2031

The City Hall and the historic city block it sits on in Helsinki's city centre are scheduled to undergo a comprehensive renovation that will begin in 2028. The operations of Helsinki’s City Executive Office will be relocated to temporary premises for the project's duration.
Kaupungintalokortteli
The Lion Block, which includes the City Hall, Bock House, Burtz House, and Hellenius House, is located between Helsinki's Market Square and Senate Square. Photo: Sakari Röyskö

Helsinki City Hall and the historic city block upon which it sits are to be refurbished as part of a major renovation project in 2028–2031. The update will restore the buildings' historic interiors; improve their technical condition, accessibility, and security; and modernise its workspaces and decision-making facilities.

The premises currently function as meeting venues for the City Council and City Board, workspaces for the City Executive Office, and general reception areas. Services for residents of the city that operate in the building include the Registry Office, Mediation Office and Tourist Information. The Event Square in the City Hall Lobby regularly hosts both the city’s own events and a diverse range of happenings organised by residents and local organisations. 

The various operations that do business in the “Lion block” will be transferred to temporary premises during the construction phase so they can continue without interruption. City Executive Office staff working at City Hall will primarily move to temporary premises at Sähkötalo (“Electric House”) in the nearby district of Kamppi. It is possible that some operations may be relocated to other premises within the city. 

The renovation project is progressing with project planning and implementation planning, with construction scheduled to take place between 2028 and 2031. 

More information about the Helsinki City Hall renovation will be provided in phases as the project progresses.