Norrmén house

Norrmén house is a four-story residential building of red brick with classical design elements located in central Helsinki, facing the Uspenski Cathedral. The top floor contained large apartments for wealthy residents, while lower floors held smaller units for domestic staff and service workers.

Architect Theodor Höijer designed the building in 1897 for Alfred Norrmén, chairman of Helsinki city council, representing the era's residential development. The structure stood until 1960, when demolition made way for the Stora Enso headquarters.

The building housed the Eastern Emigrants Club from 1897 to 1944, serving as a gathering place for members of that community. Later institutional uses gave the structure different roles in the city's social fabric.

The site is in the Katajanokka district across from Uspenski Cathedral and easily accessible on foot from other central areas. Since the original structure was demolished in 1960, visitors can observe the location and surrounding architecture rather than tour an interior.

The 1960 demolition sparked ongoing discussions about recreating the original structure, as the city recognized its architectural and historical value. These debates reflect how much the community cherished what was lost.

Location: Helsinki

Inception: 1897

Architects: Theodor Höijer

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture

Part of: old part of Katajanokka

GPS coordinates: 60.16778,24.95861

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:04