New Tartu Downtown Cultural Centre (EE)

“PUIDUST SILUETT” is very clear in its architectural concept and stands out from other works with its strong idea of a roof landscape silhouette. The visuals of the building are high level and the architectural language of the silhouette are very elegant and enjoyable. The historic building silhouette done with the roof structure is interesting, but the courtyard makes the building visually massive. The courtyard helps to bring natural light to most of the rooms, but it makes the internal walkways quite long. Placing the library on one level is positive, which makes the use of the space comfortable and flexible. Küüni street and the area along the Emajõgi river are connected by a clear pedestrian axis, and the stepped area along the Emajõgi river is well thought out. Parking and logistics are well thought out. At the same time, the courtyard does not create a very clear added value and only reduces the integrity of the large park area and makes the building very dominant over the surrounding environment.