The Hiiu Grain Elevator, a historic landmark located in Tallinn’s Nõmme district, is undergoing a major transformation aimed at reviving its industrial heritage while getting new functions. Originally built in 1956 for the storage and processing of grain, designed by the Promzernoprojekt Institute, the elevator is a typical example of functionalist industrial architecture, with its robust concrete form and efficient grid layout.
The project began with a design competition focused on reimagining the elevator for modern use while preserving its iconic industrial character. Our winning proposal introduces residential apartments into the existing grid of elevator shaft spaces, each apartment will feature special qualities such as large, floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies, offering panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape and nature.
The lower level of the building will house business spaces, contributing to the vibrancy of the surrounding area. On the top floor, a restaurant with 360-degree views will become a new social destination, attracting both residents and visitors.
Our extensive experience with concrete industrial buildings has allowed us to approach this project with care and precision, ensuring that the structure’s historical essence is preserved while adapting it for contemporary needs. The concrete exterior will largely remain intact, honoring the building’s original utilitarian aesthetics, while modern updates will ensure that the space meets today’s standards.
The Hiiu Grain Elevator project is not only an architectural and urban revitalization effort but also a forward-thinking example of sustainability and CO2 consciousness. In a time when the construction industry is increasingly focused on reducing its carbon footprint, the reuse of existing industrial structures offers a significant environmental advantage. By preserving and adapting the original concrete framework of the elevator, we are minimizing the need for new materials, which drastically reduces the overall carbon emissions associated with construction. Concrete is one of the most CO2-intensive materials to produce, and the elevator’s existing structure contains a significant amount of embodied carbon—the CO2 emissions associated with the production of the materials used in its original construction. Instead of demolishing the building and starting from scratch, this project capitalizes on the carbon already locked in the concrete, effectively reducing the environmental impact of the redevelopment.
Additionally, the design integrates sustainable practices by repurposing much of the old material. Portions of the concrete that are removed during the renovation will be recycled for use in surrounding infrastructure, such as pathways and landscaping elements, reducing waste and further lowering the project’s carbon footprint. The Hiiu Elevator’s transformation showcases how industrial heritage can be preserved while contributing to a more sustainable urban future. This approach highlights the reuse of existing buildings to meet modern needs, without adding unnecessary strain on natural resources and the environment.
Photos: Tõnu Tunnel, Ragnar Jaaniste