The Volta factory area in Tallinn was established in the early 20th century, the factory was a cornerstone of heavy industry, producing electric motors and other mechanical equipment. Located in the heart of Kalamaja, one of Tallinn’s oldest and most vibrant districts, the factory complex symbolized the industrial prowess of the era. However, as the industrial landscape changed, the factory’s operations ceased, and the area fell into disuse. In recent years, the site has undergone a dramatic transformation, evolving from a forgotten industrial zone into a thriving urban quarter.
We approached the design of the Volta Quarter 6 apartment houses with a clear vision: to honor the area’s industrial heritage while creating contemporary living spaces. The architectural concept for the new buildings draws heavily from the site’s industrial past, with a strong emphasis on robust materials and a bold, functional aesthetic. We opted for a design language that echoes the former factory’s utilitarian character, using clean lines and strong geometric forms.
One of the standout features of the apartment houses is the highly visible entrances, designed to make a strong architectural statement. These large, striking entryways create a sense of arrival. The entrances not only serve a functional purpose but also reinforce the connection to the area’s history, offering residents a link to the past as they step into modern, stylish homes.
The Volta Quarter 6 apartment houses consist of six distinct buildings, each with its own unique character. These are the white House, with apartments through 2 floors, the black House, and the red houses, named for their striking exterior color schemes.
The new buildings blend seamlessly with the already renovated apartment houses and the existing industrial architecture. In addition to concrete, steel, and glass, industrial-inspired details help to give the buildings their unique character.
In keeping with a modern living environment, as many balconies as possible have been planned. The design draws inspiration from a lattice structure, which visually fits well with the quarter’s overall atmosphere. The abundance of balconies creates an important additional volumetric detail, allowing residents to enjoy the outdoors and significantly extending the living space during the summer months.
A key element of the Volta residences is the park within the quarter. Modern buildings will be developed along the park, featuring semi-private courtyards connected to the central public park. The space between the buildings is reserved for pedestrian connections between the park and internal streets. Although the courtyard is accessible by car in emergencies, it is designed to remain a car-free area in daily life.
Photos: Kaupo Kalda, Tõnu Tunnel, 3D illustrations