Finnish architects alarmed by proposed demolition of Kolinportti service station in Juuka

The potential demolition of the Kolinportti service station, located along Kuutostie in Juuka, has alarmed Finnish architects. Built in 1992, the owners aim to dismantle the building due to its poor condition, impracticality, and high maintenance costs. Renowned architect and architectural researcher Harri Hautajärvi is appalled by the proposal, seeing Kolinportti as possibly the most significant Finnish service station of its era.

“The project set an exceptionally high standard. The outcome was a unique building featured in leading architectural magazines and foreign publications,” Hautajärvi stated. The futuristic and postmodern Kolinportti emerged from an architectural competition, with its distinctive features including a piercing column and a triangular shape.

Designed by architects Juhani Katainen and Olavi Koponen, the station has sparked debate since its inception. Despite the proposal to demolish the building, Hautajärvi argues it should be renovated. “Kolinportti should not be torn down; it should be restored,” he insists. The current shareholders estimate renovation costs to be nearly four million euros, a figure that confuses Koponen. “Kolinportti originally cost around 13 million marks, which is comparable to these alleged repair costs. And the building is only 32 years old,” Koponen notes.

Within North Karelia’s regional planning, Kolinportti is designated as an architecturally valuable cultural site in Finland. Hautajärvi describes its importance: “Many service stations have been built in Finland, but Kolinportti stands out and has created an identity for the area.” However, this designation does not protect it from demolition, as the structure remains unprotected. Architect Juhani Katainen considers demolishing it a significant mistake, emphasizing its potential as a historical attraction for many years to come.