Holes discovered in abandoned houses in Pelkosenniemi, Lapland

This summer, a disturbing revelation emerged in Lapland when enormous rectangular holes appeared in abandoned houses in Pelkosenniemi. The deteriorating structures, which had been recognized as culturally significant, were cut open, exposing their interiors. These buildings were owned by a bank that had obtained a demolition permit from the Pelkosenniemi municipality, citing their poor condition. However, a restoration expert interviewed by Yle suggested the buildings or their logs could have been utilized as whole units.

The logs from Pelkosenniemi are now featured as decorative elements in the Apukka Resort, a travel company based in Rovaniemi that repurposed the material in its new constructions. On October 5, Apukka held an open house event, attracting around 1,500 visitors from Rovaniemi and Lapland. Attendees expressed admiration for the new interiors, with no one condemning the company for the demolition, contrary to summer discussions about the issue.

Many, like local resident Mervi Hiltunen, found the space cozy and appreciated the log walls, suggesting they were better preserved there. Matti Inkerö praised the logs’ impact on the venue’s natural ambiance, while some social media users expressed shock over the demolition of the old buildings, questioning if alternatives existed. Nevertheless, visitor Samu Paulin acknowledged the legality of the demolition and advocated for the preservation of historical structures wherever possible.

Markus Kolari, chairman and entrepreneur at Apukka Resort, defended the decision to use the logs, emphasizing it was part of the sustainable management of a previously unused building. He highlighted that his own residence is a protected structure, illustrating his commitment to preserving historical craftsmanship.