Loiske Spa & Wellness Center by Studio Puisto Architects

Loiske Spa & Wellness Center is located in Ähtäri, South Ostrobothnia, adjacent to Hotel Mesikämmen (1976) by Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen. Mesikämmen is one of the few remaining Finnish wilderness hotels and a significant example of nature oriented expressionist modernism. Loiske was designed to honor the same architectural and material principles, and originates from a master plan aimed at developing tourism in the region in a more sustainable direction.

The wellness center is connected to the hotel by a covered walkway and serves hotel guests, day visitors, and local residents. The building presents a modest and closed appearance from the arrival side, opening toward the sloping landscape and Lake Hankavesi. Natural light, water, and tactile materials such as board formed concrete, wood, and stone define the spatial experience. The main pool hall forms the architectural heart, where a rising, sloped roof and textured concrete wall create a ceremonial sense of scale. Clear spatial sequencing guides users intuitively from changing areas to diverse pool environments, including wellness and therapy spaces. Carefully scaled volumes and restrained material choices create a timeless and calming environment, rooted in its landscape.