Pärnu Lootsi 2a apartment building

2024 / Invited Architectural Competition/ 1213 m2

Authors: Gert Guriev, Markus Kaasik, Annebritt Rell

Olev is an apartment building worthy of Pärnu – contemporary, yet clearly respectful of the city’s character. Three differently oriented pitched roofs give the building its distinctive silhouette and offer each apartment its own direction and view: towards the northeast to the bridge, towards the southeast to the moat and Old Town, and towards the northwest to the mouth of the Pärnu River and the evening sun. The largest roof slope frames three private rooftop terraces opening to the sunset.

The clean, functionalist south façade is a clear homage to architect Olev Siinmaa. The facades are finished with natural materials: oiled grey wood creates a calm background, warmer-toned balcony recesses add contrast, and the standing-seam metal roof ties the ensemble into the surrounding Pärnu cityscape.

The building is positioned on the plot so that living rooms and balconies are oriented away from neighbouring houses and as much as possible towards the river view and evening sun. Parking is located on an underground level, leaving the ground level for a green courtyard and semi-public terraces. The landscaped yard – with trees, shrubs and perennials of varying heights – creates a nature-oriented and private living environment that blends organically into Pärnu’s seaside and riverside urban fabric.