Luola Sports and Events Centre

Sport facility type

• Indoor sports hall
• Indoor sports centre

Is the facility part of the sports complex?

Yes

Description

The Luola Sports and Events Centre in Savilahti, Kuopio, Finland, exemplifies sustainable innovation in sports facility development. Completed in 2024, this project transformed a former Finnish Defence Forces depot into a versatile, multi-purpose facility, integrating environmental sustainability with community engagement.

Size

• Indoor Space: 13 780 m²
• Outdoor Space: 0 m²

Other relevant information

The center has been recognized in architectural publications for its innovative approach to sustainable design and community integration. Its successful transformation from a military depot to a public sports facility demonstrates its value to the community and serves as a model for similar projects.

Sustainability pillars of the innovation'

• Energy
• Materials

Subcategories

• Resourcing: Sustainability roles and or teams.
• The Savilahti district emphasizes sustainable development through projects like the Luola Centre, reflecting a commitment to eco-conscious urban planning.

Innovation description

At the core of Luolas sustainability strategy is energy efficiency, with the facility benefiting from Savilahtis cutting-edge lake cooling system, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and reliance on conventional heating and cooling methods. This integration of district heating not only optimizes energy consumption but also sets a precedent for sustainable urban development in sports infrastructure.

The centre embodies circular economy principles, utilizing recycled materials in its construction while repurposing existing structures to minimize waste generation. By embracing adaptive reuse, Luola showcases how historical and industrial sites can be transformed into thriving, eco-friendly community hubs without excessive material consumption.

Governance and sustainable urban development are integral to Luolas success, as it serves as a flagship project within Kuopios strategic initiatives for eco-conscious city planning.

Innovation Type

Technical innovation

Approximate cost of investment in innovation (in €, excluding VAT)

50 000 000 €

Aid or subsidy to encourage the implementation of the innovation

Years for the return on investment (ROI)

None

Pros of the Innovation

The transformation of a former Finnish Defence Forces depot into a modern sports facility minimizes the need for new construction materials, significantly reducing carbon emissions and resource consumption.

Cons of the Innovation

Being built inside rock caves, the facility has minimal access to natural daylight and fresh air circulation. This could lead to increased reliance on artificial lighting and ventilation systems, which may counteract some of its energy-saving benefits.

Facility Indicators

Other Indicators

Interest in a specific need that can be addressed by a company offering an innovative sustainability solution.