This is how research and innovation are redefining space needs in Otaniemi

More companies need spaces where offices, laboratories, and production work are all under the same roof or even in the same space. This trend can especially be seen in Otaniemi, as many technology companies want to be located near the research cluster formed by Aalto University and VTT.

Technopolis’ Otaniemi office campus is also located in the area, providing office space solutions for more than 200 companies.

“Companies’ needs are becoming more diverse. If everyday work involves testing, production, or research equipment, an office alone is not enough. For many, being close to an ecosystem that supports product development is essential,” says Jarkko Mylly, Business Unit Director of Technopolis Helsinki Metropolitan Area.

According to Mylly, this change is also reflected in the types of spaces companies are now looking for.

“Businesses are increasingly seeking solutions that combine office space with various specialised facilities under one roof. Compared to traditional workspace needs, this is a clear change.”

In Otaniemi, research organisations, startups, and technology companies work physically close to one another. According to Enter Espoo’s CEO Jaana Tuomi, collaboration in the area is built on natural, everyday encounters.

“Otaniemi’s strength lies in an environment where physical proximity and an open way of working support everyday collaboration. People meet naturally, helping collaboration start more quickly,” Tuomi explains.

In recent years, the area has attracted more companies developing advanced technologies and requiring a high-quality research environment.

“Otaniemi has seen a rise in companies focused on microelectronics, quantum technology, and defence technology. These sectors need a strong research and expertise hub around them,” Tuomi adds.

Space technology company Kuva Space operates in Technopolis’ facilities in Otaniemi, where office and laboratory work take place on the same floor. The company occupies an entire floor, with one half dedicated to open office space and the other to production and laboratory use.

“We evaluated several office locations in the Helsinki region, but Technopolis’ services and growth possibilities suited our needs best. Otaniemi felt like a natural choice because our company has its roots at Aalto University,” says Kuva Space’s HR Manager, Sarah Elers.

The location and services also support the company’s daily operations.

“We develop and test technology continuously, so the office and laboratory must be close to one another. In addition, being near Aalto University and VTT is a major advantage for both expertise and collaboration,” Elers continues.

In daily work, the practicality and flexibility of the spaces make a big difference.

“The facilities offer flexibility, which helps us arrange office and production environments in a way that supports long-term growth and changing needs,” Elers describes.

In Otaniemi, these kinds of needs are increasingly common. Versatile space solutions have already become essential for many companies seeking to continuously develop their operations. This applies to both scaling startups and larger technology companies.

The same development is evident in the area’s latest buildings. The third phase of Technopolis’ Innopoli 4 building, completed this autumn, is the newest part of the versatile building complex constructed for VTT since 2020. The thrid phase introduces modern specialised facilities, including laboratory, X-ray and cleanroom areas. With a total area of 19,000 m², Innopoli 4 is fully leased to VTT and offers a modern workspace equipped with top-level research facilities.

“It is important for companies that their spaces support their work instead of limiting it. That is why flexibility is key in Otaniemi – the spaces must adapt quickly to the needs of new technologies, equipment, and diverse workflows,” says Mylly, Business Unit Director of Technopolis Helsinki Metropolitan Area.