Helsinki, 2 February 2024- Tech-led serviced apartment brand Bob W has announced two more properties in Finland, as it continues to strengthen its foothold in Europe.
In addition to Helsinki property Bob W Kaarti that is due to open this summer, new property Bob W Kamppi is also situated in the Finnish capital while Bob W Turku City Centre, is the company’s first property in this historic area of Finland. Combined, these two locations add over a hundred sustainable apartments to the company’s growing portfolio.
Known for its distinctive tech, these design led, sustainable apartments benefit from locally inspired interiors and a seamless digital service as Bob W continues to build its reputation for a ‘Best of Both Worlds’ approach to hospitality — the reliability of a hotel and the ‘live like a local’ experience of a home.
Bob W Turku City Centre is a purpose-made development in one of Turku’s landmark buildings at Eerikinkatu 12C known as ‘Vanun Talo’ or the Cotton Wool House. The property was named after its longest-standing tenant, a fully female-led textile company ‘Oy Turun Vanu’ occupied it until the 1950s. Recently referred to by locals as ‘Queen of the Marketplace’, Bob W Turku City Centre is situated in the bustling market square next to excellent transport links – a perfect position for exploring the area.
Hand picked by Bob W, Turku was chosen for its historical charm, modern vibe and wide selection of vibrant stalls, cafes and restaurants (Turku is known as Finland’s food capital) as well as big name shops, malls and department stores. In the summer, the city of Turku really shines. A walk along the Aura River gives views of traditional medieval buildings such as the Turku Cathedral and Castle, and the river boats turn into cosy pubs anchored alongside outdoor eateries, while regular music festivals, such as the internationally acclaimed Ruis Rock add to the atmosphere.
Constructed in the 1920s, this historical jugendstil building showcases unique architectural features including the varying floor levels and the recent restoration of the building’s facade. Inside, local designers and artists have created a warm, authentic atmosphere inspired by the laid-back browns and greens of the Aura River. Muted tones are accented with shades from Turku’s iconic landmarks including the city’s official mascot Posankka (it’s Pigduck!), bringing a splash of pink. Inspiration is drawn from the functionalism of the 1920s and 30s, where comfort takes priority and every corner feels like home.
Bob W Kamppi, secured in collaboration with real estate partner Slättö, sits in an area of Helsinki that is known as the heart of the Finnish music scene where more than half of the city’s live music venues are situated. Kamppi is a cultural melting pot of creativity and is home to many museums, record companies and music festival headquarters – the Urho Kekkosen Katu stretch has even been nicknamed ‘Rock and Roll Street’.
In keeping with a growing trend in the repurposing of commercial buildings, Bob W Kamppi is a former office block that will be transformed into stylish apartments set around an inner courtyard with a rooftop sauna lounge, in a prime location. Office to hospitality conversions are bringing new life to cities, a movement that Bob W is a true advocate of with projects such as Kamppi and others across Europe.
Opening in 2025, Bob W Kamppi’s mixture of studios and one-bedroom units will have an interior concept designed by local design agency KOKO3, uniquely merging the building’s 70s raw architecture with modern Finnish design. A colour palette inspired by the local neighbourhood blends with statement design pieces, while locally sourced artworks, a signature of the Bob W brand, capture Kamppi’s essence. Collaborations from renowned contemporary Finnish designers Vaarni & Basta feature in coworking spaces, in the rooftop lounge and in the sauna facilities, showcasing a mix of nostalgia and modernity.
As a climate-neutral hospitality provider, Bob W’s extensive renovation of this office building has the environment at its core. In partnership with renowned sustainability experts Avarrus Architects, a firm that was shortlisted for Finland’s highest architectural award, the vision for Bob W Kamppi is to preserve the building’s original 1970’s essence, while significantly elevating its sustainability credentials and functionality.
Refurbishment plans include advanced, eco-friendly HVAC systems, energy efficient windows replacements, roof repairs, a renovated parking deck and the integration of solar energy solutions, all aligning to achieve LEED gold certification, the highest sustainability standards in the green building rating system.
Every Bob W Turku and Bob W Kamppi apartment is fitted with a kitchen area and extra home comforts, making them a perfect base to work or explore from for longer stays. They also benefit from Bob W’s distinctive tech that provides a fully-digital guest journey including 24/7 customer service, keyless entry and access to Bob W’s local marketplace that connects guests with local partners offering a range of services from breakfast to gym passes.
Real estate partner Slättö partnered with Bob W to secure the Bob W Kamppi property, having already acquired Bob W Kaarti in 2023.
Erik Möller, Head of Hotels at Slättö in Finland said: “Helsinki city centre is a market we strongly believe in. There is a shortage of high-end modern offerings and Bob W Kamppi will be one of the most central alternatives for both business and leisure. The innovative, digital platform from Bob W allows to focus on both short and long stay, driving high utilisation and efficient operations”.
Niko Karstikko, Co-founder and CEO of Bob W, said: “As a Finnish Pan-European hospitality brand, I am thrilled that Bob W is supporting its heritage by opening more world class properties in Finland. The Finnish market is a rapidly evolving travel destination that is not only popular for guests looking for tranquillity and adventure but is a thriving hotspot for the hospitality industry.
“The city of Turku is a place close to my heart. Half of my family are from the area and I’m delighted that Bob W is supporting this destination, I believe it is a place everyone should visit. It’s such a vibrant area, bustling with museums, galleries and waterfront restaurants.
“I am a massive champion of Helsinki and it’s great that Bob W is expanding its presence in the city. Bob W Turku and Bob W Kamppi are the ideal place for the next generation of travellers and digital nomads to stay, whether it is for a night, weeks or for longer stays.”
