Helsinki invests in design and architecture with a new Museum of Architecture and Design – Carson Chan appointed Chief Curator and Director of Curatorial Affairs
Carson Chan at the site of the new Museum of Architecture and Design in Helsinki. Photo: Anni Koponen
Helsinki is making a major cultural investment in design and architecture with the creation of the new Museum of Architecture and Design, set to open in 2030 at the city’s South Harbour. The museum’s architectural competition was won by JKMM Architects with their proposal “Kumma”, now on view in a new exhibition at the Architecture & Design Museum in Helsinki. As part of the museum’s development, Carson Chan has been appointed Chief Curator and Director of Curatorial Affairs, joining from New York’s MoMA. Meanwhile, the museum’s current main exhibition, Escape to Moominvalley, celebrates the spaces and imagination of Tove Jansson and concludes the 80th anniversary of the Moomins.
Helsinki is reaffirming its position as a world leader in design and architecture with a major cultural investment. The project represents a long-term commitment by the City of Helsinki to strengthen the role of culture and design as drivers of an inclusive and innovative urban future.
The architectural design of the new museum was chosen through an international competition, which attracted 624 entries from around the world. The jury selected five finalists, and on 11 September 2025, announced the winning proposal: “Kumma” by JKMM Architects, a Finnish firm internationally recognized for its museum and cultural architecture. The two-stage competition was held anonymously, ensuring a fair and merit-based selection.
Rendering of the event space terrace designed by JKMM Architects. Image: Mir / JKMM Architects
The exhibition Winner! Finalists in the Design Competition for the New Museum of Architecture and Design, opened on 3 October 2025, presents the winning entry and finalists, alongside insights into the competition process and the wide range of creative ideas it generated. Visitors can already explore how the new museum will take shape — architecturally, conceptually, and in spirit.
Carson Chan appointed Chief Curator and Director of Curatorial Affairs
The Museum of Architecture & Design is also defining its curatorial and intellectual framework as it moves toward its next chapter. The new institution aims to become a leading and inspiring museum for the creative industries in the Nordic region, known for its cross-disciplinary and innovative approach.
To lead this vision, Carson Chan has been appointed Chief Curator and Director of Curatorial Affairs, beginning in January 2026. Chan joins from the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, where he served as Director of the Emilio Ambasz Institute for the Joint Study of the Built and Natural Environment and Curator of Architecture and Design.
In his new role, Chan will oversee the strategic development and implementation of the museum’s content, including exhibitions, collections, publications, and research initiatives. His work will guide the museum’s cultural programming as it transitions toward its new building in 2030.
Set design sketch for the Swedish Theatre by Tove Jansson. Image: Moomin Characters
Exploring Tove Jansson’s worlds of imagination
Currently on view at the Architecture & Design Museum in Helsinki, Escape to Moominvalley exhibition offers a unique exploration of the real and imagined spaces of beloved Finnish artist and author Tove Jansson. The exhibition examines how Jansson’s personal environments — her studio home in Helsinki and the remote island of Klovharu in the Finnish archipelago — influenced her creative process and the architecture of Moominvalley.
The exhibition provides new insights into Jansson’s world and reflects on the Moomin philosophy, where home is understood not only as a physical space but as a state of openness and belonging. The exhibition also marks the conclusion of the 80th anniversary celebrations of the Moomins, honoring the lasting impact of Jansson’s artistic legacy.
More information
Leena Karppinen
Senior Manager, Helsinki Partners
leena.karppinen@helsinkipartners.com
Tags:
