This Children’s Pop Up Space in Kontula adds a vibrant splash of color to the urban landscape. Designed in collaboration with children, it features a variety of toys and games for everyone to enjoy. The goal of this space is to create more child-friendly public places in different districts, especially near essential services like libraries and youth clubs.

The modular setup serves multiple functions, offering a versatile space for seating, socializing with friends, playing, and enjoying snacks. Additionally, it provides much-needed shade and creates a welcoming environment in the shopping mall area, which was previously perceived as unpleasant by many of the children taking part in surveys and workshops about child friendly public realm.

The project involves various participatory activities to assess the use of the pop-up space and its surrounding urban area. Approximately 100 children actively participated in workshops, Play & Game activities, and other events during the first summer in 2023. In 2024 the pop-up space continues and evolves through site specific art and workshops.

This initiative is part of the Fiksu Kaupunki (Smart City) program by the City of Helsinki and Forum Virium Helsinki, aimed at enhancing public spaces and the urban experience for children and the project continues in 2024 under the City of Helsinki Urban Development division.

The urban modular furniture is provided by Parkly, and the canopy prototype is designed by Riku Toivonen.