The deliberately asymmetrical window spacing of Think Corner comments on the symmetrical rows of windows in Porthania opposite. The new Think Corner was designed by JKMM Architects, a practice that has won more than 50 architectural competitions and received prizes in over 100.

The idea behind this exceptional competition task was complete transformation: the aim was to turn a closed, concrete administrative building into an open and welcoming meeting place. Think Corner has fulfilled the wishes of both users and the client — as proven by the daily bustle and crowds that fill the building. The new Think Corner includes an open stage, and a pedestrian route runs through the building. Thanks to Think Corner, the University of Helsinki has stepped down to street level, among people.

Architectural competitions for renovation projects are still unusual, but in the age of sustainable construction they may become more common. Research shows that repairing and reusing buildings is more ecological than new construction. An architectural competition is an effective way to take environmental values into account: competition means quality, and a high-quality building is a major ecological act. The quality guarantee offered by an anonymous competition also motivates designers. Asmo Jaaksi of JKMM has said that it is inspiring to compete through quality — not through reputation or price.