A landmark postmodern service station in Eastern Finland has found a new owner with ambitious plans. Entrepreneur Jukka Suninen purchased the Kolinportti station in North Karelia's Juuka municipality. He intends to transform the site into a safari center and service hub.
The distinctive building represents a rare example of Finnish postmodern architecture. Architects Juhani Katainen and Olavi Koponen designed the station through an architectural competition. Their winning entry called 'Sammon taonta' gained international recognition in design publications.
Suninen believes the location offers tremendous potential. 'This is Eastern Finland's playground,' he said. 'Even during the toughest times, millions of people pass by on Highway 6.'
The station's previous operators filed for bankruptcy last spring. The property accumulated substantial repair debt estimated in the millions. Local heritage authorities had even sought demolition permits earlier this year.
North Karelia Museum and the Finnish Association of Architects strongly opposed demolition. They argued the building represents postmodern style in its purest form. The structure holds significant cultural and historical value.
Suninen disputes the massive repair estimates. 'I would guess the repair need is maximum 200,000 euros,' he stated after recent inspections. The entrepreneur plans immediate energy upgrades using ground-source heat and solar power.
Preserving the architectural integrity remains crucial. Suninen has contacted the original designers to maintain the building's unique character. The large roof structure could accommodate solar panels, though this might compromise the architectural vision.
The service station could reopen by next spring. Fuel distribution will resume even sooner. Several businesses have already expressed interest in leasing space, including a pharmacy, bakery, auto repair shop, and cafe operator.
The safari center development represents at least a half-million euro investment. It would offer activities like snowmobiling and dog sledding. Additional accommodation buildings might follow on the property.
Suninen currently funds the projects alone but reports investor interest. He remains confident about the venture's success despite obvious risks. 'Let's take things one step at a time,' he said. 'The historical continuity is now secured. We'll try to keep the place alive.'
This preservation effort demonstrates growing appreciation for postmodern architecture in Finland. The style emerged in the 1980s as a reaction against modernist uniformity. Only a handful of service stations nationwide resulted from architectural competitions, making Kolinportti particularly noteworthy.
The project reflects broader trends in rural Finnish development. Entrepreneurs increasingly repurpose distinctive buildings for tourism. This approach maintains cultural heritage while creating new economic opportunities in regions facing population decline.
What does this mean for North Karelia's future? The development could boost year-round tourism in an area known for natural attractions. Successful transformation might inspire similar projects across Eastern Finland. The region needs innovative solutions to maintain vitality amid demographic challenges.