Information
K2S Architects was founded in 2001 by the three partners, Kimmo Lintula, Niko Sirola and Mikko Summanen, all in their late 30s. ‘Our aim is to design good environments,’ says Lintula, explaining that K2S strive for ‘functionality and clarity, experience of space, authenticity and making use of building heritage in new architecture.’
Chapel project, Kamppi, Helsinki
Inspiration
'We always talk about “roots”,’ says Lintula. ‘The Finnish word for roots is juuret, and for us the word has grown into a new meaning, a sort of secret term that defines good architecture.’ To give their architecture roots, K2S wants spaces to move the soul, the building to be closely related to its surroundings and have a relationship to the Finnish building tradition while being as innovative as possible. Music is an inspiration (the trio have a band), as is the work of Aalto, Corb, Jacobsen and the Saarinens.
Innovation
Despite their grounded approach, K2S believes innovation is crucial. ‘There is always an attempt to create innovation,’ says Lintula, ‘whether it’s a new way of using materials or a creative combination of form and structure.’ Finnish rural architecture has just as much impact as the greats in this respect.
INFORMATION
- Website
- http://www.k2s.fi
