Architects Reima and Raili Pietilä won the 1963 competition for the Finnish Embassy, to be built in the diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri, with a striking and memorable entry titled “Snow speaks on the mountains.” The Finnish embassy in New Delhi is a beauty of a building.
Officially opened in 1986 and extensively renovated by ALA Architects between 2013 and 2018, the building combines Nordic architectural traditions with Indian elements, featuring a distinctive “Snow speaks on the mountains” roof design. It functions as a key diplomatic hub under Ambassador Kimmo Lähdevirta.
“This is undoubtedly Finland’s best overseas mission,” says the country’s ambassador to India. The complex features six side buildings surrounded by a landscaped garden.
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The interiors were designed by interior architect Antti Nurmesniemi in collaboration with the Pietiläs, and the compound’s landscape design was created by landscape architect Maj-Lis Rosenbröijer and the Pietiläs. The large ceramic bas-relief in the ambassador’s residence was made by ceramic artist Rut Bryk. The interiors are furnished with Nordic pieces, including Artek furniture and glass art by Oiva Toikka.
In the 20 years from conception to completion, the original design—with a single roof—was changed, breaking up the single white plane into six side buildings, evoking the collegial atmosphere of an Indian ashram.
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Led by ALA Architects, the five-year project (2013-2018) updated the compound to improve sustainability, security, and working conditions while preserving the original design ethos.
The renovation of this mythical masterpiece of Finnish modernism has brought the ingenious building complex back to its original glory. The 2-stage project consisted of a complete overhaul of technical systems, functional updates, changes to the compound’s entrance gates, and architectural work focused on restoring the original spirit of the design and repairing misguided maintenance efforts both indoors and outdoors.
The Finnish Embassy in New Delhi – A Beauty of a Building, Tor Kjolberg reporting.
All images (except photo of the Ambassador) © Tuomas Uusheimo.