Retrofit Elevator in Turku
Turku is Finland's oldest city and the country's fifth-largest. The city centre and suburbs contain a significant number of elevator-less apartment buildings constructed in the 1950s–1980s. Particularly the old stone buildings in the centre, the Runosmäki and Varissuo suburban areas, and the historical blocks along the Aura River form a broad elevator-less building stock. We manage retrofit elevator projects in Turku from start to finish — from feasibility assessment to project planning, procurement, and installation supervision.
Key figures
Turku-specific considerations
Turku's central apartment buildings combine multiple construction eras — 1920s functionalist buildings, 1950s post-war reconstruction apartment blocks, and 1970s prefabricated concrete buildings. Each has its own technical characteristics for retrofit elevator installation. In older stone buildings, stairwells are often narrow, requiring careful planning.
The Runosmäki and Varissuo suburban areas represent typical 1970s–1980s prefabricated construction. These buildings are often excellent candidates for retrofit elevators — wide stairwells, standard structures, and sufficient space for a shaft.
The City of Turku has invested in promoting accessibility, and Building Control actively supports retrofit elevator projects. The permit process typically progresses in 2–4 months.
Costs — Turku
In Turku, a retrofit elevator typically costs €130,000–260,000 per stairwell. In the centre's older stone buildings, the cost may be higher than in suburban prefabricated buildings.
Subsidies & grants — Turku
Turku provides a 10% municipal top-up grant on top of the VARKE state subsidy. The city's accessibility coordinator assists with planning. Applications are accepted year-round.
Since 2025, the state elevator subsidy is administered by VARKE (formerly ARA). A grant decision must be obtained before construction begins.
ARA subsidyRequest a free assessment
We'll assess your building's possibilities for a retrofit elevator. The assessment is free and non-binding.
Request assessment