Helsinki unveils newly renovated Ruoholahti Playground featuring vibrant colors and computer theme

Third-grade student Alayna Serh from Helsinki and her friends are thrilled with the newly renovated Ruoholahti Playground, which features more vibrant colors than the old park. “I come here every day because it’s so fun. Everyone is excited,” says Serh.

The playground, designed in collaboration with author Linda Liukkaa, who teaches coding to children, is the latest attraction in Helsinki. The grand opening took place last week. According to Hanna Harris, Helsinki’s chief designer, local children visit the park even in the mornings before school, and families are traveling from further away to enjoy its facilities. “We sought a location that serves the local community and is easily accessible to visitors from across Helsinki,” Harris states.

Situated on the south bank of the Ruoholahti Canal, this computer-themed playground is the first of seven story-driven theme parks planned by the city. Harris mentions that the next themed playground may focus on the sea and will be located in eastern Helsinki, although specific plans have not yet been decided.

Cities have recognized the importance of playgrounds for residents, leading to upgraded profiles for older parks through various themes and functionalities. In addition to Helsinki, themed parks are emerging elsewhere in Finland, such as Kuopio’s Uppo-Nalle Park and Tampere’s Pikku Kakkonen Park.

Design director Harris emphasizes the importance of children’s visibility in urban planning, promoting creative designs that encourage exploration and learning. Community input was considered during the design process, including leaving a hill open for sledding during winter, a long-standing feature of the area.