Physicum – building services renovation at the University of Helsinki

We modernised the building automation and building services systems at the University of Helsinki’s Physicum building in Kumpula. The project, which lasted around a year, was completed in spring 2026 and improved the building’s functionality, energy efficiency and safety.

At Physicum, we focused on modernising the building services. Among other things, we replaced air volume controllers, water chillers, condensers and the building’s lifts, and upgraded the access control and locking systems.

The demanding cleanroom refurbishments included structural sealing work and upgrades to the building services. This ensured that the facilities meet the requirements set for them and will continue to do so well into the future. We also upgraded the building’s entire automation system, making it easier to monitor and manage the building’s operation in the future.

The work was carried out in a research and teaching building that remained in use by staff and students while its systems were being modernised. This required careful planning, clear phasing and precise safety management.

Users were consulted throughout the project, and operations were developed based on their feedback. Occupational safety also remained at a good level: there were no accidents resulting in sickness absence during the project.

Collaborative planning delivered significant cost savings without compromising on quality. All four partial handovers and the final handover were completed with zero defects. The final handover took place three weeks ahead of schedule. The project management contract with a target budget worked well for both the main contract and the building services contracts. 

Jussi Tuomola, Property Manager, University of Helsinki