A Unique Snow Arena on the Southernmost Fell in Finland, Syöte

Putting Indoor Air Quality First

When making the procurement decision for the Snow Arena, the City of Pudasjärvi’s property manager emphasised that the popularity of log construction is based on clear and proven benefits.

“We see it as a solution to indoor air quality problems, which Pudasjärvi has also faced. Log is a domestic, local and ecological material. It has been used in construction for centuries, and now is the right time to give it the value it deserves.”

Comfort in log-built environments is also exceptional, and the positive user experiences speak for themselves.

“For example, in kindergartens, log structures significantly calm the sound environment. And elderly residents moving into care homes feel at home, as many of them spent their childhood in log houses. It is a comforting thought that the circle is completed in this way,” the property manager reflects.

Kontio supplied the logs for the Snow Arena, and the construction was carried out by Lapti. The cooperation with Lapti worked exceptionally well.

“We used a negotiated design-and-build procurement model, and we have been very satisfied with the outcome. Our wishes were listened to carefully, and the collaboration worked excellently. The key to success in a project like this is seamless cooperation between all parties—and when that happens, the result is truly good.”

Hanna Haipus, Head of Project Business at Kontio, explains that Kontio’s SmartLog™ is a truly non‑settling log. Unlike traditional laminated log products, it features vertically oriented timber elements that carry loads and completely eliminate settlement.

SmartLog™ is fully manufactured in Kontio’s own production process and is a design‑protected product not available elsewhere. According to Haipus, SmartLog™ was particularly well suited for the Snow Arena, as it allows concrete elements to be connected directly to the log structure—something that would be nearly impossible with conventional laminated logs. It also eliminates the need for future adjustments caused by settlement, making it a low‑maintenance solution.

Following the Pudasjärvi Log Campus project, demand for log construction in public buildings has increased dramatically at Kontio. Haipus also highlights log construction as an effective way to improve indoor air quality, thanks to wood’s natural ability to absorb and release moisture, helping to maintain a healthy indoor climate.

Facts

• The main construction material of the Snow Arena is Kontio’s SmartLog™.
• Completed at the end of 2019.
• The building is the world’s first modern log structure designed for multifunctional use.
• The Snow Arena includes approximately 1,400 m² of flexible hall space, as well as a fitness and free‑weight gym with group exercise facilities.
• The building houses the Pudasjärvi tourist information office, the Syöte central booking office with its services, a restaurant, a fitness and free‑weight gym, and approximately 430 m² of multifunctional hall space suitable for group exercise and various events.
• The Snow Arena also includes space for a rotating pop‑up shop.