In partnership the Embassy of Finland in Canberra + DESIGN Canberra Festive want to share the building with other lovers of architecture and design. On Monday 7th of November, we will host a reception at the Embassy to celebrate the 20th anniversary of our chancery building. This will offer an opportunity for the public to experience the building from the inside and learn more about the history of Finnish architecture and design.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Embassy of Finland chancery building in Canberra. Officially opened on the 1st of February 2002, the Ilmarinen was designed by Hirvonen-Huttunen Architects following an open design competition in 1997. Today, the building is a symbol of modern day Finland. The glass facade speaks to the transparency of the government and openness of society while the building materials reflect Finland’s penchant for technology and love of nature.

The Embassy of Finland in Canberra provides consular services to the whole of Australia, New Zealand and 6 other pacific islands. It is perhaps fitting then that the design of the Embassy was inspired by the famous Finnish naval vessel, Ilmarinen. While our Ilmarinen cannot sail across the ocean to greet our island neighbours, we welcome visitors to this award winning piece of contemporary Finnish design, uniquely set amongst the native Australian bush.