Office room in The Old Student House

The history of the Old Student House is full of change and motion, but its location in the heart of the city remains constant. The building, designed by Axel Hampus Dalström, was constructed in 1870. It is famous for hosting several cultural treasures, including Akseli Gallen-Kallela’s Kullervo Rides to War mural. These days the Old Student House is one of Helsinki’s best known landmarks.

The story of the Student House began with the decision to move university students, known for their parties, to the outskirts of the city away from the townsfolk. In 1938 the future of the building was threatened by the construction plans for Kaivotalo, which would have had “the Old” (“Vanha”) demolished. On the other hand a great fire nearly destroyed the entire building in 1978.

In the course of time, the centre of Helsinki has moved rather precisely to where the Old Student House is located. For over 140 years the Student House has been the meeting place of both students and residents, a culture centre, as well as the base to a political student movement. Renovated in 1979 after the fire, the restaurant and ball room have become popular places for hosting events. In conclusion, the Old is still living in its usual way: full of energy.

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