Ventilation in Wooden Buildings: Linnanfältti as a Pilot Project in Timber Construction

The modern wooden city of Linnanfältti in Turku, Finland, stands as an impressive example of contemporary timber construction, combining ecological values with the best aspects of urban living. Built since 2017, this wooden housing district is one of Finland’s largest timber construction projects and a pilot site for the Finnish Government’s Wooden Construction Promotion Programme. 

In addition to residential buildings, Linnanfältti also hosts various amenities serving the surrounding community, such as offices, commercial spaces, restaurants, and a daycare centre. The area is characterised by urban-style closed blocks, sheltered courtyards, and uniform modern architecture. Parking is partly located under courtyard decks and in basements.

A Collaboration of Independent Developers

The goal of the project has been to create a residential area near the historic Turku Castle, city centre, and the Aura River that fits seamlessly into its environment while meeting the demands of modern living.

Seven independent developers have participated in the creation of Linnanfältti. The area consists of 831 new apartments, housing an estimated 1,500 residents. The total estimated gross floor area of the new buildings is 48,500 square meters.

The Role of Ventilation in Timber Construction

Wood is a sustainable and versatile building material that not only provides a beautiful aesthetic but also promotes a healthy and comfortable living environment. It is suitable for structures, exteriors, and interior design, with its natural properties enhancing indoor air quality and acoustics. Studies have shown that wood can reduce stress and blood pressure while inhibiting the growth of harmful microbes. When properly designed and constructed, timber buildings are extremely durable.

In modern timber construction, ventilation plays a critical role, particularly in maintaining the building’s condition and longevity. Good ventilation significantly impacts living comfort by removing impurities and moisture while conserving energy. Effective ventilation reduces the risk of mold and moisture damage, ensuring healthy indoor air in all weather conditions throughout the year.

Wood: A Sustainable Natural Resource and Building Material

Wood is a renewable and replenishable natural resource that, when used sustainably, is an excellent building material. Its use helps reduce the carbon footprint of construction due to its low emissions during processing. Future legislation is expected to increasingly regulate the lifecycle emissions of buildings, especially in public construction. Wood’s characteristics make it well-suited to meet the demands of sustainable construction, including energy efficiency, renewable materials, and recyclability.

Good Indoor Air Completes Living Comfort

Airfi has contributed to the construction of Linnanfältti by supplying air handling units and kitcehn hoods for several properties in the area.

Energy-efficient and quiet air handling equipment bring significant added value to both developers and residents throughout the building’s lifecycle. Choosing an energy-efficient ventilation unit supports sustainable construction goals, such as achieving BREEAM and LEED certifications and reducing the building’s carbon footprint. Airfi ventilation units are easy to install and require minimal maintenance.

The importance of good indoor air is emphasized, given that we spend nearly 90% of our time indoors. Efficient ventilation creates fresh and healthy indoor air, promoting well-being and living comfort. Airfi’s reliable and energy-efficient air handling solutions are effortless to use. Additionally, the self-learning AI in Airfi ventilation units optimizes operations in real-time while keeping electricity consumption low.

Linnanfältti Projects Equipped with Airfi Air Handling Products

Kiinteistö Oy Päivänsäde 3
Kiinteistö Oy Päivänsäde 4

This four-building residential complex was completed in 2020 and 2021. The buildings were constructed under weather protection, ensuring the timber materials remained dry for a high-quality, long-lasting result.

Airfi supplied Model 60 air handling units and Pia control hoods for these properties.

As Oy Turun Portinvartija

One of the newest properties in the area, Portinvartija was completed in 2023. Its three- and four-story buildings are located at the busy corner of Linnankatu and the area’s main entrance road. In addition to 58 apartments, the building includes approximately 200 square meters of commercial space on the ground floor.

Apartments are equipped with Airfi Model 60 air handling units and Suvi control hoods.

As Oy Turun Puubyygeli

The Puubyygeli complex consists of a four-story building (A) and a three-story building (B), housing 70 apartments ranging from 25.5 to 46 square meters.

Airfi supplied Model 60 air handling units and Suvi control hoods for these buildings.

Sources:

City of Turku Puuinfo

Airfi units used in this project