Lasnamäe Tondiraba center proposal "ELUVIIS"

Lasnamäe is Tallinn’s largest and most populous district, whose development has been fragmented over the decades and whose central area has yet to fully take shape. Originally conceived as a series of microdistricts, Lasnamäe was intended to integrate living and working environments, but this vision was never fully realized. As a result, there is a need for a comprehensive and purposeful development strategy that connects the district’s existing strengths with new layers of urban growth. As an unfinished urban district, Lasnamäe holds significant potential for creating a new urban and spatial structure.

The aim of the proposal was to develop a comprehensive spatial vision for the central area of Lasnamäe in the Tondiraba district. What will the future center of Lasnamäe look like? What will be the functions of its different areas, the typologies of its streets and buildings, the network of green spaces, and its overall identity? The objective was to shape Lasnamäe’s central area into a forward-looking, layered, and socially cohesive urban environment that strengthens community identity, introduces new services and workplaces, improves the quality of public space, and provides an attractive living environment for both current and future residents. Particular attention was also given to the phased development of the area, defining how the district can be built up gradually over time.

In our proposed solution, we approached the design through the concept of urban squares. Public squares do not need to be overemphasized as a single monumental space in one specific location; instead, they can be understood as a series of fragments distributed across the site's key points. This reduces the monumentality of one large central square while introducing natural gathering points along everyday routes. The existing area already contains an extensive and highly popular green space with an established green network. We chose not to intervene in it, but rather to complement and enhance its surroundings.

The monumentality of a single central square has been divided into smaller local squares and gathering spaces. These include Paekivi Square, Aviators’ Square, Stage Square, and Liikuri Square. Paekivi Square is nevertheless intended to accommodate larger public events, such as Lasnamäe Days. It is equally important to create a diverse urban area that supports as many functions as possible, forming a city within a city.

Paekivi Square is the largest public space in the area, designed for events and public gatherings. Public buildings, such as the library and youth centre, are located along the edges of the square.

Lendurite Square serves as both a crossroads of movement and a social meeting point, where commercial and public functions intersect. Its inspiration is drawn from the social life of the aviators who once used the former airfield.

Liikuri Square is an everyday neighbourhood square nestled between residential buildings, where local residents gather. Smaller than Paekivi Square, yet arguably even more important as a social space.