From: Martin Aunin
Role: Lead architect
“Outcome exceeded initial expectations”
Work & Approach
The focus with the Wise building was on reconstructing the existing structure, introducing natural light, preserving the building’s substance, and adding a new volume while maintaining limestone elements and historical window openings. Circulation paths and shared areas were designed with the logic of the entire complex in mind.
Work & Approach
The focus with the Wise building was on reconstructing the existing structure, introducing natural light, preserving the building’s substance, and adding a new volume while maintaining limestone elements and historical window openings. Circulation paths and shared areas were designed with the logic of the entire complex in mind.
Breakthroughs
Converting a large factory building to a new function presented multiple challenges: limited natural light, additional floors, and connecting separate building sections (X and Y) through an underground level. Fire safety and accommodating a large number of people required specialized expertise. Project complexity increased due to parallel ongoing developments on the site.
Breakthroughs
Converting a large factory building to a new function presented multiple challenges: limited natural light, additional floors, and connecting separate building sections (X and Y) through an underground level. Fire safety and accommodating a large number of people required specialized expertise. Project complexity increased due to parallel ongoing developments on the site.
Takeaways
Continuous learning and gathering information are essential to tackle challenges effectively. A clear goal and consistency throughout the process were key to achieving the desired result. The environment continues to evolve as part of the larger quarter, offering ongoing opportunities for learning and adaptation.
Facts
The project began as an industrial building, housing a furniture factory and a limestone workshop.
Surroundings transformed over five years: a cozy courtyard replaced a historically outdated monument
Original limestone on the facade is preserved
4.5 rooftop levels reference Tsar-era workshops; light wells and multi-floor shared areas enhance spatial experience
New building finished in corten steel, its rusted tone visually linking old and new volumes
Outcome exceeded initial expectations; initial vision five years ago did not fully anticipate such a successful result
Facts
The project began as an industrial building, housing a furniture factory and a limestone workshop.
Surroundings transformed over five years: a cozy courtyard replaced a historically outdated monument
Original limestone on the facade is preserved
4.5 rooftop levels reference Tsar-era workshops; light wells and multi-floor shared areas enhance spatial experience
New building finished in corten steel, its rusted tone visually linking old and new volumes
Outcome exceeded initial expectations; initial vision five years ago did not fully anticipate such a successful result
Photos: Tõnu Tunnel
Article: Nele Volbrück, Lisette Vapper
Web: Keijo Kraus