Set along the harbour, the Piano Pavilion restaurant combines natural timber with expansive glass surfaces to create a light, open structure. Located on the edge of Lake Vesijärvi near the Sibelius Hall, the building forms part of the area’s evolving architectural park.
The pavilion’s structure pairs a robust timber frame with extensive glazing. Generous glass façades and large window panels wrap the building, opening views toward the lake while allowing natural light to fill the interior. The triple-glazed insulated glass units used for the façade glazing are made of high-performance solar control glass, Pilkington Suncool™ 70/40 partly laminated (Pilkington Suncool Optilam™ 70/40 10.8) for the outer pane and laminated low-emissivity glass Pilkington Optilam™ Therm S3 (8.4 or 10.8) for the inner pane. These high-performance glass elements contribute to comfort, safety and energy efficiency.
The roof incorporates glazed sections, made of Pilkington Activ Optilam™ 12.8 or 16.8 laminated self-cleaning glass, supported by timber beams to enhance the sense of transparency and connection to the outdoors. The glazing offers safety and reduced maintenance.
Wood remains central to the design, with laminated timber forming the primary structure and veneer-based materials used in floors and ceilings. These are complemented by glass balustrades and transparent boundaries that visually extend the café space onto the surrounding terraces. These are made of extra clear toughened laminated Pilkington Optilam™ OW T 25.5 glass.
The project was realized through international collaboration. Architect Gert Wingårdh developed the initial concept, while detailed planning and construction were carried out in Finland, with local companies supplying materials and designing the furniture.
Wingårdh likened the pavilion to a vessel being launched toward the water. Its gently inclined ceiling opens the building toward the lake, while the interplay of solid timber elements and transparent glass creates a light, floating appearance.
Named in honor of Italian architect Renzo Piano, the pavilion reflects both craftsmanship and innovation, blending natural materials with modern glazing to achieve a bright and inviting space.