This stunning building started with an architectural competition won by the two young Finnish architects - Kimmo Lintula and Hannu Tikka. The programme asked for a timber design for the new Lahti Sibelius Symphony Orchestra 1300 seat concert hall to incorporate the old brick wood-working factory.

The biggest challenge was the acoustic performance of the hall and the sound insulation of the walls around the large concert hall. American acoustic expert Russel Johnsson defined the required performance and acted as consultant. The concert hall, with its rounded balconies, is clad with birch plywood and has a birch floor. The entire structure is of Glulam (spruce). Curved Glulam beams act as guarding rails and support the balconies.

The perimeter of the hall consists of plywood panels that can be opened towards the space in the entrance hallways in order to modify the acoustics.