The development of YIT's Circular Economy Pilot Block 697 in Vallila, Helsinki, is entering a new phase as the intact removal of reusable materials begins and a dedicated circular economy store opens. At the same time, YIT is launching an educational collaboration on circular economy with Stadin AO (the Helsinki Vocational College). 

During the development phase, as many interior materials as possible will be carefully removed from the block's empty buildings for reuse. These materials will be sold at the newly opened circular economy store located in the block of Vallila, as well as through the online store at www.store.spolia.fi. 

The store will be operated by YIT's partner Spolia Design Oy, a company specializing in second-hand building components. Spolia tests, refurbishes and documents the items on sale, and provides a two-year product warranty. 

"In this pilot, we are developing practical operating models and processes for reuse. However, the aim is not only to recycle and sell materials, but to build a broader circular economy ecosystem together with partners and industry actors. This ecosystem will promote circularity comprehensively and create value for everyone involved," says Benjamin Kalliola, Project Director at YIT. 

Educational collaboration to build future expertise 

The Vallila project will also serve as a learning environment for construction students, as YIT begins a collaboration with Stadin AO. The goal is to familiarize future construction professionals with hands-on circular economy practices under the guidance of YIT and Spolia experts. At the same time, the college will explore the development of a new study module on circular construction. 

"We are testing the structure and feasibility of the planned study modules in Vallila. The module, designed around work-based learning, could consist of various elements, including the principles of circularity and resource efficiency in construction, material flows and usability, tools and methods used in dismantling and reuse, as well as safe working practices with environmental considerations," says Pekka Natunen, construction teacher at Stadin AO. 

Guided by circular economy principles 

The Vallila pilot block is being developed in line with circular economy principles more comprehensively than in any previous urban-development project in Finland. The design makes extensive use of the existing building stock, includes partial new construction, significantly increases the block's green factor, and integrates the circulation of materials, stormwater and nutrients into the future block structure. 

The project supports YIT's long-term target to reduce the use of natural resources and promote low-carbon circular construction. 

The Vallila block is currently in the development phase, and the zoning proposal is planned to be made available for public viewing in spring 2026. 

Read more: 

Circular economy block - Vallila's new life | YIT.fi

For further information: 

YIT Corporate communications, tel. +358 44 743 7536, press@yit.fi

YIT builds thriving living environments in Europe. For more than 110 years, we have made everyday life smoother by building homes for a good life, spaces where people and businesses can thrive, and infrastructure that supports the essential functions of society. We operate in seven countries and employ approximately 4,100 professionals. In 2025, our revenue was EUR 1.8 billion. YIT Corporation's shares are listed on Nasdaq Helsinki. 

Read more: www.yitgroup.com and follow us on Linkedin I X I Instagram I Facebook