Pohjankartano School, Educational complex in Oulu, Finland
Pohjankartano is an educational complex in Oulu that brings together multiple institutions under one roof: a secondary school, a music high school, an adult education center, and a conservatory. The Karjasilta Library housed within the building offers public access to computers, printing services, meeting spaces, and digital resources.
The building was completed in 1967 based on architect Kari Virta's competition-winning design titled 'Symbiosis'. Extensive renovation work took place between 2015 and 2022, preserving the original character of the structure.
The school is known for its specialized music program, which draws students from across the region. This focus shapes daily life in the building through rehearsals, performances, and artistic activities.
Access to the library is through the entrance on Suvantokatu Street, making public services easy to reach. Visitors should keep in mind that the different educational institutions within the complex may have varying hours of operation.
The renovation was Finland's first program alliance project, completed in five phases while deliberately preserving concrete surfaces as a link to the original structure. This approach demonstrates how modern design can respect a place's history.
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