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Three courtyards - Redesign for Kämp-Galleria block - A typology study on courtyard and atrium in Nordic architecture and a reflection based in Helsinki urban context
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School of Arts, Design and Architecture |
Master's thesis
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en
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99
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This thesis explores the spatial and urban roles of courtyards and atriums, examining their potential to enhance urban density while maintaining architectural and environmental coherence. Structured into five chapters, the study combines literature review, case studies, mapping, on-site investigations, and a design proposal to analyze these void spaces and their transitional forms, such as covered courtyards.
The research highlights the historical and architectural significance of courtyards and atriums, emphasizing their evolution as indoor boundary spaces within Nordic architecture. This progression, driven by advancements in craftsmanship and large-scale glass production, reflects Finnish architecture’s enduring pursuit of integrating natural light and environmental connections into built forms.
Mapping techniques applied at an urban scale reveal how courtyards and atriums contribute to spatial continuity, circulation efficiency, and public vitality, particularly within the neoclassical framework of central Helsinki. These findings inform the thesis’s design proposal for the Kämp-Galleria block, where technical and conceptual analyses reimagine these void spaces as pivotal elements for connecting parcels and fostering sustainable urban development.
The conclusion reflects on the interplay between technological innovation, spatial exploration, and urban densification, positioning courtyards and atriums as essential tools for crafting refined urban fabrics. By bridging architectural and urban scales, the study offers insights into designing for densifying cities while maintaining the dynamic balance between built and natural environments—architecture of the city and the city within architecture.
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Kotnik, ToniThesis advisor
Kotnik, ToniLindgren, Tommy