Pirita Convent
Architects
Ra Luhse
Tanel Tuhal
AB LUHSE & TUHAL
Location
Merivälja tee 18, Tallinn, Estonia
Size
2 313 m2
Status
Completed in 2001
Photos
Kaido Haagen, Martin Siplane
Tags
While the ruins of the 15th-century Birgitine nuns’ convent have always been the landmark of Pirita, the issue was taken up in 1997 to re-establish the institution and an invitation-only design competition was held. The result is a modern interpretation of the building type, which is determined by the specific rules of liturgy and cohabitation. The rooms are organised around a central atrium and there is direct access from private areas to the small and ascetic public church. The addition of an open guesthouse is also a sign of the times. A slender bell tower ensures a modest vertical accent, while the limestone finishing of all facades relates them to the adjacent historical ruins.
