The architectural and consulting group Evata will be expanding its operations in the Far East by setting up an office in Peking, which will enable the company to serve its international customers better as they expand to China.

Evata's Peking office will primarily serve Scandinavian companies operating in China, offering help in the design of industrial and commercial projects and working environments. Evata's services range from looking for a site to project management, concept design and architectural services.

Tommi Tuominen, the chairman of the board of directors of Evata Worldwide, says the need for a permanent office and staff in China has increased as a growing number of European countries are expanding into the Chinese market.

"For example, the construction of an office or industrial production plant in a new operating environment is a big challenge for the customer and includes risks. By operating on the spot we can manage the project efficiently and react quickly, and in that way minimize these risks."

Teemu Vuori, an architect, will be taking charge of the office, which will open in October. Vuori, who has managed numerous projects in the Far East, believes that Evata will be a good partner for Scandinavian companies.

"Our international experience and local contacts will enable us to offer a comprehensive service ranging from creating a business concept to taking a project through to completion. This will help the customer in all stages of the project and provide the opportunity to focus on the core activities."

The company's international co-partner network operates in the United States, Middle East and Far East - particularly in China, India, Singapore and the Philippines.

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Besides commercial development and office, industrial and leisure-time buildings, sport and entertainment venues are a particular area of expertise for Evata. In the picture Evata's plan for Valencia football club's new stadium, which will hold 75,000 spectators.