Timo (1928–2021) and Tuomo Suomalainen (1931–1988) - brothers who were both architects - won an architectural competition held between 1960 and 1961 with their “Kivikirkko” (Stone Church) proposal, in which the church hall was embedded into the rock. Their radical design aroused public discussion, but the building has become a part of Helsinki’s cultural milieu and is now a highly respected attraction as well as a popular church for weddings.

The church was inaugurated in 1969. The architects´ work is known for its unique use of materials, forms, and deviation from Finnish architectural norms of the time. Timo Suomalainen was an honorary member of both the AIA and SAFA