Best Study Spots at Aalto: Where to get Inspired?
Studying at Aalto is more than just attending lectures and doing assignments, it’s about finding the right environment to fuel creativity and productivity. As a student in my second year of my master's, I’ve been in many places of the campus, searching for the perfect balance between focus and inspiration.
I discovered that having the right study spot makes all the difference. Whether you are a person who prefers absolute silence, a very creative working space, or a cozy café, Aalto has something for every student. Below is a list of some of my favorite places to get comfortable with textbooks, a laptop, or a group project.
1. Harald Herlin Learning Centre
The library is the best place for students that need a combination of quiet and collaborative areas. The upper level is ideal for quiet study, and the lower levels offer collaborative work areas, meeting rooms. Personally, the most favorite of mine is the peaceful area upstairs because it preserves much of Alvar Aalto's original work, including the furniture.
2. Väre
For architecture and design professionals or business students, Väre is an excellent location to learn. Its floor -1 where the workshops are located has open spaces, bountiful natural light, and innovative atmosphere promoting creativity and innovation. The other floors in the building offers dedicated study areas, personal workstations, and cozy niches where you can snuggle up with your laptop and a cup of coffee from Cafetoria at the main entrance. Private rooms can also be booked in advance for group study or quiet study sessions.
3. Design Factory – Puumiehenkuja 5
If your work involves creating, prototyping, or designing, Design Factory is the perfect spot. This space fosters innovation with its collaborative atmosphere and access to state-of-the-art tools, including 3D printers and laser cutters. It’s an excellent choice for students working on hands-on projects and multidisciplinary collaborations.
4. Marsio – Aalto Studios
Being the newest building from Aalto is perfect for media, film, or technology students, Marsio is an excellent place to study. With up-to-date equipment and comfortable study spaces, it's perfect for video editing, digital project work, or simply a quiet and new workspace to work.
5. Computer Science Building – Konemiehentie 2
I first discovered about this building because of the Subway fast food chain inside (which also offers student prices 2,95€), but it also has a great learning center. With very comfortable armchairs, break rooms, and individual workstations, it's an ideal place to work on individual projects in a relaxed atmosphere.
6. Otaniemi Outdoor Study Areas – Under the Oak Tree
During warmer months, Aalto's campus has excellent outdoor areas. The oak tree in front of väre is a perfect spot if the sun is hitting strong, or the Amphitheater behind Väre are refreshing alternatives to studying indoors. These areas are perfect for reading, brainstorming, or breaks between studying with the advantages of fresh air and nature.
Aalto Spaces App – Easily Find and Book Study Rooms
For students who need a private or group study space or struggle to find their way to a lecture hall, the Aalto Spaces app is a must-have tool. It allows you to locate and book available study rooms across campus, ensuring that you always have a quiet and convenient place to focus. Whether you need a meeting room for group work or a silent room for deep concentration, the app is meant to assist you in organizing your study sessions well.
Right now I only have these places in mind that I think are already a lot! and I assure you that there are many more in which I have not even discovered, the campus is too big :D
See you around the campus!
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