Using the Unused: Spaces for Aalto University's Creative Community

Abstract

This thesis investigates the possibility to implement an agile space-use system in otherwise vacant spaces. To gain knowledge about the demand for office- and workspaces the Helsinki Metropolitan Area is researched. The Otaniemi campus of Aalto University is located inside this area and functions as a case study. Earlier research has identified a change in working habits and the upcoming of creative work fields, which give the required insights for further study. Through a series of expert interviews, conducted in 2012-2013, the current state-of-the-art in learning spaces is studied through which information is gathered about existing facilities within the University, as well as on the vacant spaces on the campus. The user perspective and the preferred future development is mapped out through a student survey, which enquires their opinions on the study environment and to gather their insights regarding the development of new learning spaces. Based on the acquired information a space-use system is developed. In accordance with the research findings a proposal is made to link the existing open work- and study facilities. The research shows that in order to optimize the use of such spaces and to create grounds for expansion of their services communication is essential. Improved communication about the available learning- and working facilities will allow the implementation of new types of flexibly usable workspaces.