Astra is the new campus on Biskopsgatan in Turku that respectfully combines new architecture with the older existing buildings, the Academic Library and Hanken. The new Astra is built on the basement level of Gadolinia and adapted to the modular system of the original building structure. In the renovated restaurant area, one can experience Gadolinia’s distinctive 1960s aesthetic with large window sections that open toward the courtyard of the block.

The lunch restaurant Kårkafé Astra serves students, staff, and others who work in the building.

The newly constructed parts of Astra are characterized by open and bright spaces. The interior color scheme is inspired by the colors of the surrounding building facades in the block. We see empire yellow, gray blue, and reddish brown tones that reflect the brick of Turku Cathedral, as well as green shades from the surrounding vegetation.

The new sections house the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, including the subjects of public leadership, sociology, and political science. The building contains four lecture halls, one of which is the round lecture hall Bonfire with seating for 170 people. The Academy’s course book library is located on the ground floor. A student lounge, PC classrooms, and ICT and educational services serve both students and staff.