Readers of Architectural Journal have selected their preferred design for Helsinki's new architecture museum, with the "City, Sky and Sea" concept narrowly winning in a public poll ahead of the official jury announcement. The survey of nearly 300 respondents showed strong competition among the five finalist designs, with the winning entry receiving just 29% of votes.

The competition began last December when five anonymous concepts were chosen from 624 international submissions in a two-stage design process. The museum will be constructed on the waterfront site in Helsinki's historic South Harbour, the same location originally planned for the city's high-profile but ultimately unrealized Guggenheim Museum. The 105 million euro project represents a significant cultural investment for the Finnish capital.

The finalist teams developed their initial concepts into detailed proposals for the 10,100 square meter facility, with designs identified only by project names: City, Sky and Sea; Kumma; Moby; Tau; and Tyrsky. Each team received 50,000 euros to prepare their final submissions for the prestigious architectural competition.

According to the Architectural Journal poll results, Design A: "City, Sky and Sea" captured 29% of reader votes with its distinctive curved façade and roof creating a tent-like appearance. Readers praised the design's "alluring roof profile and brooding interior," describing it as "the most complete and structured project" and "a building that would stand the test of time." The design features cast panels made from recycled glass and includes a large central staircase with exhibition spaces following the curved forms.

"Tyrsky" came in a very close second place with 28% of votes, showcasing a building with curved roofing and zinc-sheet cladding arranged in rectangular volumes. The design draws inspiration from sea rhythms with its undulating roof and incorporates a small inner courtyard to bring natural light into the building's center. The proposal emphasizes sustainable construction using solid timber for both structural elements and interior surfaces.

The remaining three designs received more modest support from readers. "Tau" garnered 16% of votes with its low-height rectangular design featuring large glass façades that connect the museum interior to its surroundings. "Moby" received 14% support for its wedge-shaped footprint that preserves waterfront views toward Tähtitorninvuori Park, while "Kumma" was the least favored with 13% of votes despite its compact design that maintains sight lines from the park to Market Square.

The architectural competition is organized by Real Estate Company ADM, jointly owned by the City of Helsinki and the Finnish state. The distinguished jury includes architect Mikko Aho, Gus Casely-Hayford (director of V&A East in London), Beatrice Galilee (architectural curator and executive director of the World Around), and Matti Kuittinen (associate professor at Aalto University).

When completed, the museum will house an extensive collection of more than 900,000 artifacts, including architectural models, drawings, and photographs related to renowned Finnish architects such as Aino and Alvar Aalto, and Eliel and Eero Saarinen. The facility will serve as the centerpiece of the waterfront Makasiiniranta district, transforming the area into a major cultural destination.

The site carries significant architectural history, having been designated a decade ago for a 110 million euro Guggenheim Museum designed by Paris-based Moreau Kusunoki Architects. That previous competition, organized by Malcolm Reading Consultants, attracted 1,715 submissions from nearly 80 countries and included notable architects such as the UK's Asif Khan, who has also entered the current competition.

Funding for the new museum project has reached nearly 150 million euros through commitments from both the City of Helsinki and the State of Finland, supplemented by four private foundations. The jury will announce official results with prize money of 50,000 euros for first place, 35,000 euros for second, and 25,000 euros for third, plus purchase options of 20,000 euros for the remaining two designs. Construction is planned for completion by 2030, marking a significant milestone in Helsinki's cultural infrastructure development.