New residential project in Joensuu aims for completion by 2026

The appearance of a crane at a construction site is rarely newsworthy; however, in Joensuu’s Penttilänranta area, a residential building project has garnered exceptional interest. Two unfinished apartment buildings were left in limbo following the bankruptcy of the construction company. In August, local builder Jarmo Heikkinen purchased the properties and established a new development company to complete the project.

The structures had endured nearly two years of exposure to the elements before work resumed, raising concerns about whether they can be transformed into safe and quality residential buildings. Joensuu’s building inspection mandated an external assessment before construction could restart. Jari Frimodig, from the development firm Ylisoutaja, mentioned that the evaluation involved two engineering firms, A-insinöörit and Granlund. They found the structural framework has remained resilient, with no moisture-sensitive wood or insulation present.

Heikkinen emphasized that the original construction timeframe had been adjusted to accommodate proper moisture management, aiming to complete the roofs by early next year, followed by a thorough drying process throughout the spring. Monitoring of the drying will involve humidity sensors installed within the structures, with data managed by an external company.

The development is set for completion by spring to summer 2026 and will consist of 50 units, either for sale or rent, depending on market conditions. Heikkinen has not disclosed the amount paid for the properties acquired from the bankruptcy estate, nor is a detailed project budget available at this time. The original construction company had won the contract after a city-organized architectural competition, paying 1.3 million euros for the waterfront site.