A New, Green and Connected Urban Space

On the former grounds of the Estonian Fair Centre, long dominated by asphalt and a closed industrial setting, a new, open and green urban space is planned. Marienberg will become a peaceful, sea-facing neighbourhood – a place where nature and city life come together naturally. The new neighbourhood will create space for movement and socialising, bringing green spaces, sports and recreation facilities, a kindergarten, a shop, cafés and other everyday amenities to the area. Marienberg connects Kadriorg, the Pirita Promenade and Maarjamäe, creating a continuous and pleasant route for both local residents and visitors to the city. Shaped by its proximity to the Maarjamäe museums, Klindi Park and the sea, the urban space grows out of its surroundings rather than at their expense, supporting the development of Tallinn towards a greener, more people-centred and better-connected urban environment.

Today, the former site of the Estonian Fair Centre is occupied by dilapidated Soviet-era buildings and a large car park that remains unused for most of the year. It is a closed-off and disconnected area along one of Tallinn’s most valuable transport routes. In the development of Marienberg, this area will be transformed into a public and accessible urban space, where buildings, landscaping and streets create a new connection between Kadriorg, Pirita and Maarjamäe. The new residential quarter will be located in the wider vicinity of the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds, making it easier for festival visitors to move to and from the venue.

The international architectural competition for Marienberg was won by ALA Architects from Helsinki, whose vision reflects Nordic modernism. It is human-scale architecture designed for people. Their previous work includes the highly acclaimed Helsinki Central Library Oodi as well as the new terminal at Helsinki Airport.