Haltia is built from wood. The environmentally-friendly design and construction of the building consider various factors, including the building's shape, the placement of elements, the number of windows, cardinal directions, and the changes throughout the day. The goal is to achieve the smallest possible carbon footprint.

Designed by architect Rainer Mahlamäki, Haltia is constructed from large CLT (cross-laminated timber) elements and was opened in 2013. The Finnish Nature Centre Haltia received a sustainability award in 2015 in the prestigious European Museum of the Year (EMYA) competition.

Haltia employs numerous energy-saving solutions. The entire building is designed to require minimal energy for heating, cooling, and lighting. The roof features both solar collectors and panels, which significantly contribute to the building's energy efficiency. The geothermal system heats the building, and rock-cooling is used for cooling. Large windows from floor to ceiling provide natural light throughout the building. For instance, the large windows in the Haltia Hall extend from the floor to the high ceiling, bringing natural light into the auditorium.