Collaborating for Lapland’s Future

On May 19, 2025, the Lapland Picobello project held a virtual stakeholder meeting, bringing together partners and participants to share progress, insights, and future plans. The meeting opened with a summary of outcomes from the recent Kiihdyttämö workshops, where participants explored key challenges and opportunities for Lapland's urban and cultural development.

Insights from the Kiihdyttämö Workshops

Four major themes emerged during the workshops:

• Pleasant Urban Spaces with Artistic Integration
  Emphasizing the role of art as a key driver in creating attractive, engaging city environments.

• Tackling the Housing Shortage in Lapland
  Addressing one of the region’s most pressing challenges with innovative housing solutions.

• Establishing a Cultural Hub
  Supporting creativity and community through the development of a central cultural space.

• Physical Activity and Well-being
  Enhancing the quality of life with initiatives that promote health and movement.

Looking ahead, the next Kiihdyttämö sessions are scheduled for June 4 and June 11, with a focus on the project application process and securing funding.

International Inspiration from Barcelona

Project Manager Marika Ikäläinen shared insights from her recent study trip to Barcelona. The visit provided valuable exposure to resident-oriented urban development practices, strategies for tackling city-specific challenges, boosting local business and expertise, and investing in quality-built environments. These international examples are now being reviewed to assess their applicability in Lapland’s context.

Strengthening Northern Collaboration

Marika also attended the Northern Finland New European Bauhaus (NEB) meeting in Oulu on May 8, 2025. The event fostered peer learning, cross-regional networking, and collaboration in building NEB partnerships that can support Lapland's long-term goals.

A key discussion point was the proposal to develop a joint strategy among Northern Finland, Northern Norway, and Northern Sweden, as part of the Northern Programme. Finland is expected to initiate this effort, with an aim to include objectives that align with the NEB vision of sustainable, inclusive, and beautiful living environments.

Expanding International Networks

The Arctic Urban Regional Cooperation (AURC) network will reconvene in Levi during the upcoming EU Arctic Forum. Ahead of this, a remote meeting is being arranged between the Regional Council of Lapland, the Municipality of Kittilä, and the AURC coordinator. The Council’s engagement in the Picobello project is expected to be highlighted. Notably, Canada has shown interest in NEB development and potential partnerships, underscoring the growing global relevance of the initiative. Finnish members of the AURC network include Oulu, Rovaniemi, and Salla.

In related news, Proto – Designers of Northern Finland has officially become a New European Bauhaus Partner, strengthening Lapland’s voice in the broader NEB community.

Upcoming Events and Activities

Several exciting events are on the horizon:

• Uusi Aalto Seminar – October 2, 2025
  A full-day seminar focusing on themes of history, community, and collaboration. Part of the broader NEB-aligned Uusi Aalto project.

• Aalto Week – September 28 to October 5, 2025
  A celebration of the legacy of Finnish architect and designer Alvar Aalto, featuring cultural and community-centered programming.

• Revitalize Meri-Toppila Workshops – May 27–31, 2025
  Held daily from 09:00 to 23:00, these workshops will transform a neglected parking area into a vibrant Pop-Up Cultural Park. This hands-on initiative will unite students of architecture, design, and culture with local residents, artists, and professionals in a collaborative effort to energize a neighborhood space.

• Beyond Zero – Nordic NEB Exhibition – January 15, 2026
  Hosted by the Proto Design Centre, this exhibition will showcase forward-thinking Nordic approaches to sustainable and inclusive urban design.

As preparations continue for Oulu’s role as the European Capital of Culture in 2026, the Lapland Picobello project is steadily building a network of innovation, cooperation, and cultural vibrancy across the region.