Estonian Academy of Arts - competition proposal

More pictures from the project

Address: Gonsiori Tn., Tallin, Estonia
Size: 26.500 sqm
Client: Estonian Academy of Arts
Architect: Arkitema
Konkurrenceår: 2007 open international competition

All of our architectural choices support and implement our principal vision of a united academy with continuous knowledge sharing throughout the building. We have chosen a simple concept in which the academy is concentrated in one building divided into three distinctive volumes, which are contrasted by way of three entirely transparent storeys. The building consists of a dynamic interaction between the workshops for practical art production and the faculty storeys with their offices, auditoriums and teaching rooms. This interaction is emphasised in the facade’s expression, which varies between entirely open, transparent storeys and storeys with a more closed character.
The rectangular volumes are stacked and displaced in relation to each other in a fan-like form. The fan shape is informed by contextual factors, such as light and plan conditions.
The result is a constructive building which is easy to read and which radiates dynamics in its distinctive displacement motif. The displacement creates large outdoor terraces for relaxation, taking work outside or holding exhibitions just outside the workshop windows. This will make the production visible both from the workshops and at street level – art, architecture and design will thereby be integrated in Tallinn city.
In this building, the art forms will live side by side and will be inspired by each other.