Polar Nights began as a conversion project on Lapuankatu. The building had previous commercial uses; the 2013–2014 works adapted it for hotel rooms, a gaming floor and supporting services under Finnish licensing requirements.
Architectural survey completed. Gaming licence application submitted. Local staffing plan drafted with priority for Helsinki-region residents. Initial room count set at 120.
First guests checked in during autumn. Gaming zone A opened the same month. Front desk and housekeeping teams trained on dual-language procedures. Early feedback focused on location convenience and room quietness.
Climate systems refined after the first full winter. Signage improved based on guest comments. Responsible gambling desk established as a permanent station.
Additional floors of rooms brought the total toward 180. Zone B of the gaming floor opened. Wellness area received its first thermal pool. Online booking platform replaced the earlier email-only process.
Operations adapted to changing public health rules. Capacity limits applied where required. Staff retained through reduced schedules where possible. Digital check-in options expanded.
Room climate controls replaced building-wide. Self-exclusion tools linked to national registers. Staff training hours increased for regulatory updates. Guest feedback cycle shortened.
214 rooms in operation. Three gaming zones active. Wellness circuit completed with second thermal grade. Event spaces standardised. Average monthly occupancy reviewed against staffing levels.
The property remains independently operated under Finnish company law. Annual reports and licence renewals are filed according to schedule. No external ownership change has occurred since opening.