Many of the Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall’s technical systems are at the end of their life cycle, and many of the structural elements require repairs, so a major overhaul is needed. The Yrjönkatu Swimming Hall is a valued, historical part of Helsinki’s cityscape, and the repairs being carried out now will ensure that it maintains its status as a high-quality and enjoyable recreational facility for city residents for a long time to come.
For example, the renovation includes updating the swimming pool’s technology, repairing damaged façades, and updating the surfaces in the washing and sauna facilities. Damaged tiles that were in need of immediate repair were already repaired during the spring and summer of 2023.
Updates to the swimming hall's technology will make it more energy-efficient and improve accessibility
The renovation will especially focus on using sustainable and eco-friendly materials and solutions. Efforts will be made to improve energy efficiency and optimise water consumption in the swimming hall. The building’s energy efficiency will be improved by features such as waste-water heat recovery and energy-efficient ventilation and lighting.
Accessibility will be improved for access to the hall and mobility within, as well as for services and toilets. The main entrance will be made more accessible by making the area more level and lowering the thresholds. The entrance doors will be fitted with an electronic door opener, and an audio beacon will be installed to guide traffic from the passageway to the entrance. Access to the premises will be improved in general by lowering the thresholds and making the signs clearer. The changing rooms and washrooms will also be improved by adding handrails and ensuring adequate space to manoeuvre with assistive devices. The accessibility of the yard will be improved by adding ramps at the entrances.