Letter from Estonia

Architect: Allianss
Project: Viimsi School, Viimsi, Harju County, Estonia
Client: Viimsi School
Website: www.allianss.eu

The ferric oxide treated concrete façade of Viimsi School sits pertinently within its sandstone landscape - blending into the red earth in winter or forming a powerful colour contrast when the surrounding setting turns green in summer months.

Designed by Allianss - a new architectural collective comprising Arhitektuuriagentuur, Agabus, Endjärv and Truverk Arhitektid and Urban Mark - the building is divided into blocks according to function, principally a secondary school wing; an elementary school; assembly hall; and sports centre and music room. Each block is perceived as symbolising 'different continents scattered in a large ocean', yet this apparent randomness is afforded order through the central atrium, which connects all the built elements.

Courtyards between the blocks seamlessly meld indoor spaces with the green park setting, as well as maximising sunlight into the building as a whole.