Demolition of 1957 Brick Wing Begins as Tammela School Renovation Kicks Off

Construction on the Tammela school complex starts this summer, the City of Tampere says. The deteriorated northern brick wing will be demolished to make way for a new building, and the first phase of new and renovated spaces is due to finish in summer 2028 so the school can reopen in August 2028.

The site comprises two main buildings: a new replacement for the northern section and a protected southern wing that will be renovated. The schoolyard will be renewed later when the adjacent Jugend school is upgraded. Once the full programme is complete, Tammela will serve roughly 600 pupils in everyday use and can accommodate up to 800 at maximum capacity. The complex will also house early childhood education services and the Sara Hildén Academy, which is expected to bring hobby and evening activities to the area while daytime use focuses on teaching. About 100 staff will work in the shared facilities.

Recycling and preservation are central to the project and have drawn interest beyond Tampere. Some materials from demolished sections will be reused: old bricks will be repurposed on the protected façade, and original features such as granite steps and natural stone cladding will be conserved and repaired. The brick school opened in 1957 and has been out of use for teaching since autumn 2019 because of serious indoor air problems. Since then, classes have continued in the Jugend school and in a temporary building on the yard.

The overall budget is about €17.7 million, down from an earlier estimate of €19.7 million thanks to a fall in the construction cost level and competitive procurement. Art acquisitions are included at €135,000. The project follows a needs assessment and project plan approved by the city board and a zoning plan confirmed in 2024, the city says.