The Merchants Yard Of Culture

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YEAR: 2023

LOCATION: Tartu, Estonia

PROGRAM: Cultural Center

SIZE: 20 000 m2

STATUS: International Competition

COLLABORATORS: Schauman & Nordgren Architects, Nomaji Landscape Architects, Holst Engineering, Sitowise, Images by Plankton Group

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The Merchants Yard of Culture in Tartu integrates historical and contemporary elements, creating a dynamic destination for cultural activities, learning, and socializing. Situated around Tartu Central Park, the Tartu Downtown Cultural Centre merges historical features with modern urban design, emphasizing sustainability and functionality. The project enhances the park’s historical layers and urban structure, creating green corridors that boost biodiversity and improve the microclimate. It reconnects the riverside area with Central Park, facilitating pedestrian flow and reopening historical pathways to strengthen ecological and urban connections. The Centre respects the area’s diverse scale and character, featuring a library, museum, event center, cinema, offices and cafe, all linked by a central atrium/lobby reminiscent of the historical merchants yard. This space ensures seamless access from various streets and the park. Designed to be open and welcoming, the Centre offers a safe, lively atmosphere day and night. Its intuitive layout provides clear navigation from arrival points to destinations. The transparent first floor harmonizes with the urban environment, offering good views and easy access. Inside, viewing terraces provide clear views of the river, historical old town, and surrounding landmarks.