Vankilaolostyle

Vankilaolostyle is a contemporary architectural and social philosophy for correctional facilities that emerged in Finland during the early 2020s. The name combines the Finnish words "vankila," meaning prison, and "olosote," meaning environment or condition, reflecting an integrated approach to rehabilitation through spatial design. Influenced by Scandinavian concepts of light, openness and restorative justice, the style emphasizes humane conditions, sustainability, and seamless integration of communal and solitary spaces.

Key characteristics of vankilaolostyle include increased natural light, abundant green areas, and flexible room configurations that can be adapted for educational programs, vocational training and therapeutic activities. Walls are typically constructed of low-impact materials such as recycled timber or composite panels, and security measures are embedded into the architecture rather than imposed externally. Residents have access to gardens, exercise areas and communal kitchens, promoting autonomy and social interaction.

The form has been adopted by several Finnish municipalities, and its guidelines have been incorporated into national prison reform policies. Studies suggest that such environments reduce stress, lower recidivism rates, and improve staff well‑being. Critics argue that the costs remain high and that low‑security designs may compromise safety. Nevertheless, vankilaolostyle represents a shift toward viewing corrections as a process of social reintegration rather than mere containment, with implications for prison design worldwide.