KIDE | Aalto University

“Kide” marks the 30th anniversary project of the Wood Program. The design-built project addresses the need for an outdoor event space in the city of Kuhmo, located in eastern Finland. The town, surrounded by forests and nature, has a lively tradition of timber architecture and it is known for being a hub of the timber industry and for hosting annual music festivals.

“Kide” ("ice crystal" in Finnish) draws inspiration from the fractal geometry of snow, reflected in the structure's design. Additionally, its interior space captures the essence of a Finnish forest, creating a serene and immersive atmosphere. The structure is used not only by performers but as well by residents in their day-to-day market activities.

The canopy structure gracefully rests on two corners, lightly touching the ground. Its volume is defined by a sequence of eight interwoven, mechanically connected trusses that form its square geometry. The glulam trusses were prefabricated at the Aalto University workshop, then transported and assembled on-site.

A translucent metal mesh elegantly reveals the intricate wooden framework, enhancing the structure's depth and visual appeal. The roof comprises eight prefabricated LVL (laminated veneer lumber) elements, adding both strength and character to the design.

An elevated deck and backdrop, crafted from locally sourced pine wood, create a warm and inviting stage for performers. Under Kide’s canopy, a variety of events have taken place, including folk music festivals, dance performances, choirs, rock bands, and award ceremonies.

This wooden structure has had a significant social impact on the town of 8,000 inhabitants, revitalizing the central square and bringing new life and cultural vibrancy to the community. It serves multiple purposes: hosting music festivals and performances, while also supporting everyday community use like local markets. It serves multiple purposes: hosting music festivals and performances, while also supporting everyday community use like local markets. The structure strengthens community identity, supports the local economy through cultural tourism, and enriches daily life with a new gathering space that is both functional and inspiring. The structure is used not only by performers but as well by residents in their day-to-day market activities.

The structure strengthens community identity, supports the local economy through cultural tourism, and enriches daily life with a new gathering space that is both functional and inspiring. The structure is used not only by performers but as well by residents in their day-to-day market activities

“Kide” reflects a strong commitment to sustainability through careful material selection, efficient construction methods, and long-lasting design. It primarily uses bio-based materials—especially locally sourced wood—which are renewable, low-impact, and aligned with the region’s building traditions. This not only supports the local economy but also helps reduce environmental impact.

A key sustainable strategy is the prefabrication of glulam trusses and laminated veneer lumber (LVL) roof elements at Aalto University. Prefabrication minimizes waste, enhances precision, and boosts construction efficiency. Kide’s design emphasizes durability, reducing the need for frequent maintenance or replacement. Its minimalist and honest use of materials lowers embodied carbon while preserving structural strength and offering visual and tactile warmth.

Instructors: Pekka Heikkinen, Laura Zubillaga, Dario Vidal, Mauri Kontilla (structure)

​Architectural Design: Ayato Hokkyo, Daniel Sars, Darya Belaya, Dimitris Kalogridis, Ishrat Tabassum, Johanna Saarela, Juri Kikuchi, Keitaro Tsubata, Kota Kawakami, Matej Požega, Meina Kobayashi, Nao Fujimoto, Olle Björkebaum, Simón Herrera Arévalo, Ville Mujunen, Wakana Ito, Yume Suzuki

Structural Design: Ghada Al-Adulrazzaq, Jakub Sołtysiński