[ Studio Kortemaa ] — About

Studio Kortemaa is a Helsinki based independent architecture and research practice founded by Finnish architect Anniina Kortemaa. Working at the intersection of architectural design, theory, and emerging technologies, the studio explores how architecture can develop new forms of expression that respond to the cultural, ecological, and technological transformations of our time.

The practice combines architectural competitions, speculative design, writing, exhibitions, and material experimentation to investigate how buildings can become both environmentally responsible and culturally meaningful. Through computational design, digital fabrication, and research into local identity and material systems, Studio Kortemaa develops methodologies for architecture that is context-specific and rooted in place.

Alongside independent research, Anniina has nearly a decade of experience at ALA Architects working on large-scale public and urban projects in Finland. This combination of professional practice and theoretical inquiry informs the studio's work, bridging architectural research with the realities of contemporary building design.

Anniina Kortemaa

Architect, SAFA
Rakennussuunnittelija, Poikkeuksellisen vaativa, Kiwa Inspecta
(Building Designer, Exceptionally Demanding, Kiwa Inspecta)

Competitions & Awards

2024Curatorial concept for The Finnish Pavilion in Venice Biennale, shortlisted (with group Earthbound)
2020Shenzhen New Cultural Center, China, finalist (ALA Architects)
2019Florencecall: Arts & Crafts Museum to Piazza Santa Croce, international idea competition, Firenze, Italy, 1st prize
2018Fafa's Standalone Concept, modular restaurant concept design for Fafa's restaurants, student competition, 1st prize (together with Lotta Pakarinen)
2017The Finnish Wood Award, Winner of the public vote (Vihta-sauna)
2016Housing for elderly in Rääkkylä, student competition at Tampere University, Purchase (together with Elina Merilä)
2015Vihta sauna, student competition by Youth centre Marttinen and Tampere University, Virrat, 1st prize (together with Elina Merilä)
2015Trikki balcony, student competition by As.oy Klingendahl and Tampere University, Tampere, shared 2nd prize

Other

2026Interviewed in Finnish national television program “Rakkaani, kaupunki” discussing ornament in contemporary architecture
2025Organized “Traces of the Past – A Snowy Building Workshop” together with Mimmi Koponen and Karoliina Mäenpää, as part of the program of the Finnish Architecture and Design Days 2025 organized by Archinfo Finland