Ari Harju

Change is always for the better.

I began my career in construction right after finishing basic education. I spent a couple of years on construction sites, familiarizing myself with the industry. From groundwork, I applied to and was accepted at Rovaniemi Technical School, where I graduated as a construction technician while still a young man. I acclimated to the world of design for four years with a master’s certificate before applying to Tampere University of Applied Sciences, where I earned my degree as a construction architect in 1988.

The years following my studies have included a multitude of different projects. Most of my recent projects have involved public sector renovations. These have included schools, offices, daycare centers, and healthcare facilities, some of which have been heritage sites.

There has been less work on new construction. A significant portion of the new buildings I have designed are industrial buildings of various sizes.

I have served as both project architect and principal designer on these projects.

I have engaged in various sports throughout my life, even competitively. With age, I have slowed down a bit and left competitive sports behind.

A camera has always been a constant companion. During the analog era, I primarily focused on slide photography, but I also shot and developed black-and-white photos. At some point, I traded my camera for paintbrushes, but with the advent of digital photography, I am once again painting with my camera.

Through the corporate acquisition, I am now a fresh member of UKI Architects.