Warm Timber Creates a Comforting Atmosphere in Vihti Chapel

In addition to homes, warm and health-promoting wood is increasingly used to build public buildings that reflect a close connection to nature. In the Vihti Chapel, solid CLT log structures meet atmospheric metal details and modern, light-filled glass surfaces.

The lead architect, Marko Simsiö (KOAN Oy/Ltd), fell in love with wood—and particularly with Honka’s non-settling CLT log—already during his student years. The new chapel in Vihti is one of his and architect Johannes Koskela’s finest examples of public log architecture.

“Wood is a warm, soft, and acoustically excellent building material. People feel good in homes where the scent and beauty of wood are both visible and tangible. Today, there is also a growing demand for public buildings that are ecological and healthy, which has led to an increasing use of wood as a construction material,” says Simsiö.

Honka’s CLT log expertise brings cost-efficiency to timber construction

According to Markus Saarelainen, B2B Sales Director, BA Europe, Vihti Parish had from the very beginning a clear vision: to build an architecturally striking chapel made of log. Alongside lead architect Simsiö, an expert in CLT log construction, Honka contributed extensive know-how in structural design and brought in its wide network of partners.

“By sharing our expertise, we found practical solutions for elements such as the roof structure, walls of unheated spaces, and fire compartmentation. The chapel’s large triangular windows, opening toward the surrounding landscape, were produced by our partners to fit seamlessly into the CLT log structure.”

In construction projects, Honka can best support the developer and designer from the very first planning stages—helping identify cost-efficient design solutions.

“We know the possibilities of CLT log construction—how to create beautiful, functional wooden buildings while maintaining cost-efficiency. In addition to our design expertise, Honka’s strengths include an international network of skilled installers and comprehensive site supervision services,” Saarelainen adds.

Growing Use of Wood in Public Buildings

For Marko Simsiö, wood—especially non-settling CLT log—is a highly favored building material.

“CLT log combines seamlessly with stone, metal, and glass. The cornerless joint gives the building a modern appearance. It also makes it possible to design contemporary, impressive, and large-scale log buildings, allowing them to fit beautifully even into urban environments. At the same time, they carry a sense of rootedness and reference to history and tradition,” he describes.

Simsiö also values wood’s environmental sustainability and responsibility as a building material.

“A solid CLT log wall is made of pure, breathable wood. I believe that timber construction is a sustainable and responsible choice—one that repays its investment over time.”

Honka is a leader in public CLT log construction, with wood already being used in numerous daycares, schools, and care facilities.

“From wood—and especially non-settling CLT log—it’s possible to construct even large buildings, such as multi-storey log apartments. In the future, I believe I’ll be designing an increasing number of log buildings for commercial clients as well,” Simsiö reflects.

According to Saarelainen, builders are increasingly paying attention not only to the well-being of public space users but also to that of the employees who work in these buildings.

“Wood as a building material calms, reduces stress, and creates a sense of holistic well-being in its surroundings,” Saarelainen notes.

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