Allas Pool plans major expansion with indoor spa and year-round concert hall

Helsinki’s Allas Pool, a floating sea spa on Katajanokka, is seeking city approval for a large-scale expansion that could increase its current 2,000 square meters of floor space to 10,000 square meters, according to a report by Yle.

The proposed development includes an indoor spa, additional floating pools, and a year-round multi-purpose event arena capable of hosting concerts. The expansion would extend toward Katajanokka harbor, potentially covering a full hectare of land and water.

Nordic Urban Oy, the parent company of Allas Pool, has applied for a development reservation from the City of Helsinki, which would remain valid until the end of 2028. “This is not yet about concrete plans—we’ve applied for a reservation to explore the project’s scope,” said Petteri Lautso, the company’s development director.

The current floating pools, saunas, and seasonal concert venue have drawn an estimated 800,000 visitors annually, with 300,000 using the spa facilities and 100,000 attending events. Lautso cited overcrowding as the primary reason for expansion, noting that a permanent structure would allow for better-designed facilities.

The project must also address public input, as the Katajanokka and South Harbor zoning plans are currently open for resident feedback. An architectural competition for the new buildings will be required if the city approves the reservation. Lautso emphasized preserving waterfront and city views as a priority.

Allas Pool has operated on a temporary permit since its 2016 opening. The company aims to secure a permanent site, though construction would follow the city’s separate timeline for repairing the adjacent quay wall.