In the course of the programme ‘Great Public Spaces’ dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Estonia, the historic street was reconstructed as a contemporary pedestrian-friendly main street. The light monochrome hues of the design create a museum-like exposition complemented with seats, planting, lamps and signage engraved in the pavement and providing information on particular buildings, architectural and landscape objects as well as the town in general.
People walking in the street can follow the evolution of the buildings over centuries, their relation to the street line, the dialogue between the houses across the street as well as various constructional and façade solutions and styles. In addition to the grand linear scale, also numerous beautiful details have been preserved: rainwater funnels, awnings, steps and railings, doors and windows, gates and shutters, forgings and decorative elements.
The key to the renewed Pikk Street lies in its plaza-like feel created by palpably reducing the motorised traffic area and placing it on one side of the street while expanding the pedestrian area to allow people to feel as if on a spacious square.
Inspiration was consciously taken from its appearance in the late 19th and early 20th century. Thus, there are no trees, only decorative and yet contemporary light poles that had a grand and enticing feel also back in those days.
KAI SÜDA, RISTO PARVE (Karisma Architects)
PHOTOS by Tõnu Tunnel
PUBLISHED: Maja 109-110 (summer-autumn 2022) with main topic Built Heritage and Modern Times
