Winning design for Paevälja architectural competition focuses on green urban space

The winning entry of the architectural competition for the next phase of the Paevälja residential quarter, organised by real estate developer Hepsor, was submitted by architecture firm Lumia. According to the jury, the proposal stood out for its flexible spatial solution, context-sensitive architecture, and strong emphasis on greenery.

According to Mihkel Mäger, Country Manager at Hepsor Estonia and chairman of the jury, the goal of the competition was to find a solution that would create high-quality and contemporary urban space in Lasnamäe. A total of six entries were submitted for the architectural competition covering the properties at Narva mnt 150 and 150A and the surrounding area. Four invited architecture firms participated: molumba OÜ, KAMP Arhitektid OÜ, Arhitekt11 OÜ, and Arhitektuuribüroo Korrus OÜ, alongside Lumia OÜ and OÜ inphysica technology.

“The competition proved to be very strong, and several of the submitted works were of exceptionally high quality, which we are very pleased about. It confirms architects’ strong interest in and commitment to the development of this area,” said Mäger.

According to the jury, the main strength of Lumia’s winning proposal was its exceptionally well-designed typical floor plan, which allows flexible apartment layouts and modularity while responding well to the expectations of future Lasnamäe residents. The jury also highlighted the light-filled corner living rooms, ceremonial and easily identifiable entrances, and the balanced relationship between the buildings and landscaping.

The landscape architectural solution was praised for its community garden plots, orchard, barbecue areas, and more private inner courtyards separated by terrain. According to the jury, the elevated greenery along the pedestrian route creates a pleasant and green urban environment.

“Lasnamäe is developing rapidly, and with projects like this, it is important that new developments do not function as isolated projects but help create a cohesive urban whole. In the winning design, we saw a strong balance between architectural ambition, practicality, and residents’ comfort. The minimalist use of materials and rational design fit well into the surrounding environment and give the area a fresh identity,” added Mäger.

According to Margit Aule, authorised architect-expert and partner at Lumia, their goal was to create a quarter that would become a natural and vibrant part of the city rather than simply a collection of buildings.

“We see a contemporary urban quarter as a place where architectural quality, affordability, and community-oriented public space coexist,” explained Aule. “At the centre of this design is the individual – their movement, privacy, social interaction, and everyday connection with both nature and the city.”

The jury reached its decision unanimously. The competition jury included Mihkel Mäger from Hepsor, Tõnu Uustalu from EfTEN Capital, architects Mihkel Tüür and Koit Ojaliiv, and landscape architect Maria Pukk. The competition brief was prepared by architect Ivar Lubjak.

Lumia received first prize and an award of €8,000. Molumba won second prize and €6,000. The jury decided to award two third prizes, with inphysica technology and Arhitekt11 each receiving €4,000.

Hepsor plans to begin negotiations with the winning team to conclude a design contract.

Hepsor is developing the Paevälja quarter in phases. The first residential buildings with 100 homes were completed in 2023. The next phase will add another 88 homes and commercial spaces to the quarter. Construction is scheduled to begin shortly, with completion planned for the end of summer 2027. The results of the architectural competition are also expected to begin taking shape in 2027. Altogether, Hepsor plans to build approximately 500 new homes and 4,200 square metres of leasable commercial space within the development area. The project is being carried out in cooperation with EfTEN Special Opportunities Fund.