Architecture and floor plans, cost-effective living, or a convenient location and services? Those dreaming of a new home weigh many criteria when making their purchase decision.
Finnish developer Toivo Homes surveyed Finns' needs and wishes regarding housing and acquiring a new home at the beginning of the year. According to the survey, factors affecting the living experience include the brightness of apartments, above-average ceiling height, high-quality and freely selectable surface materials, and a functional floor plan.
Ultimately, everything comes down to what kind of living experience the new home offers and what its costs are.
Toivo Homes is putting the survey results into practice as a new residential building rises in Sompasaari, taking the living experience to its peak.
Making the most of the seaside location
Location is important to Finnish homebuyers, and Sompasaari emerged in the survey as Helsinki's most desirable residential area, particularly due to its seaside location. The design is by architect Mikko Kämäräinen.
“We have listened to what people want from their homes. We also want to utilize Sompasaari's potential and seaside atmosphere. The new Gemma homes will feature floor-to-ceiling windows and a full-width balcony with glass sliding doors, enabling an unobstructed sea view – at Gemma, the sea is present even inside the home,” says Jukka Lampela, CEO of Toivo Homes.
Home extends beyond your own walls
Sompasaari's popularity as a residential area is explained not only by its seaside location, but also by diverse outdoor recreation opportunities and excellent services.
The nearby area has numerous grocery stores, restaurants and cafés, as well as a daycare center, school, and healthcare services. Helsinki's city center is easily accessible on foot, by bicycle, or by tram.
Daily life is facilitated by the building's laundry room, storage spaces, bicycle storage and maintenance station, and separately available parking spaces. The new shared clubroom, Kalasatama Talas, is also available for residents' use. Most importantly, living costs have been minimized by utilizing geothermal heating and solar panels.
A balcony is a major plus
The majority of survey respondents said they wanted a balcony and sufficient storage space in their own home. The need for versatile and functional shared spaces was also emphasized in the survey.
In Gemma, all the wishes of future residents have been taken into account, and the living experience has been taken even further. Residents have access to a pleasant courtyard area and a shared space on the top floor with sea views, featuring a rooftop sauna and terrace, a party room, and two remote work stations.
Exceptionally comfortable living cost-effectively
“As the developer, we have done everything possible to minimise living costs. Geothermal heating is the most economical option for heating, and solar panels will be installed on the building's roof. At the same time, we have taken living comfort to its peak with cooling air-source heat pumps and underfloor heating. Our goal is for residents to be satisfied with the home they have purchased. That is the best possible calling card for us,” Lampela adds.
