The new state gymnasium of Rae municipality stands as an exceptional example of modern, functional, and sustainable architecture, perfectly harmonized with the natural surroundings of the region. Warm tones and a harmonious connection with nature define the visual identity of the building. This is achieved through the extensive use of wood, which not only provides structural integrity but also creates an inviting and comfortable interior. Landscaping is an integral part of the design, complementing the building’s aesthetic appeal and reinforcing its connection to the environment. At the heart of the school building is a central staircase that doubles as a multifunctional gathering space. This staircase serves not only as a circulation element but also as a venue for student assemblies and events. It leads to a second-floor library, a focal point of the building, which is illuminated by natural light streaming through skylights. Below the library lies an auditorium, also benefiting from the shared skylight system, ensuring a connection between spaces and a welcoming atmosphere. The building extends to a southern courtyard, creating a communal outdoor area where all the students can gather during warm weather. The courtyard layout includes a variety of opportunities for outdoor activities. Utilizing the inside of the noise wall and the roof of the bicycle parking area, the courtyard features climbing walls, an adventure trail, an outdoor gym, and a basketball court. These installations transform the space into a multifunctional environment that encourages physical activity and outdoor learning while maintaining an engaging atmosphere. The integration of these features into the landscape not only enhances the functionality of the courtyard but also underscores the importance of outdoor education in the modern education framework.
Playfulness and simplicity meet in architecture and constructive solutions. All major common areas - the hall, dining room, main entrance, and cloakroom - are located on the first floor. The layout of the rest of the rooms on the first and second floors is uniform, allowing the use of load-bearing walls. The building design highlights a southern plane and a canopy that shields against direct sunlight, constructed with a steel truss. Energy efficiency and sustainability are central themes in the school’s design. The structure minimizes direct sunlight exposure, with no windows facing directly south and a window-to-wall ratio of approximately 40%. These design choices reduce cooling costs in summer while maintaining thermal efficiency in winter. The low roofline also accommodates green roofing elements that help regulate indoor temperatures and allow for the future installation of solar panels, supporting long-term energy sustainability. The building has been recognized for its architectural merits in 2024 timber architecture awards, receiving praise for its innovative use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam beams. These materials demonstrate the strength and versatility of wood, delivering both structural functionality and aesthetic warmth. The visible timber elements throughout the interior provide a natural and calming ambiance, enhancing the quality of the learning environment while highlighting the sophistication of wooden construction. Judges of the awards emphasized the precision and craftsmanship of the wooden framework, which stands as both a structural and artistic achievement.
Photos: Tõnu Tunnel, Tiit Veermäe, Andrus Kõresaar