3+1 architects: Designers of honest architecture

By Malin Norman

Over more than three decades, 3+1 has developed from a small studio into a multi-generational practice working across architecture, interior architecture, urban planning and public space.

Based in Tallinn, 3+1 architects are designers of honest architecture. Their way of working is highly collaborative. Architecture, interiors, landscape and public space are considered as parts of one whole, and ideas are developed through discussion within the office and together with partners. “We don’t try to apply the same architectural language to every project,” explains Karin Harkmaa, architect at 3+1. “Instead, each solution grows from its users, surroundings and the particular qualities of the place.”

The approach is classical yet suited for a modern lifestyle. “For us, it’s about consistency: staying curious, being open to new ideas, materials and technologies, and maintaining the same level of care from the first concept to the smallest detail,” adds Harkmaa. “After more than 30 years, every project still begins with essentially the same question: what is the right solution for this particular place?”

Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. Photo: 3+1 architects

Estonia’s identity and coastal landscape

One of 3+1 Architects’ celebrated projects is Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. This is considered one of Estonia’s most important cultural landmarks and a powerful symbol of national identity. “Our work here focuses on renewing the area with great respect for its heritage while improving the public space and its everyday use,” says Ilmar Valdur, architect. “Here, architecture meets landscape architecture and city planning. It’s a beautiful modern construction that fits well in the old landscape.”

Narva. Photo: Tõnu Tunnel

Another of the firm’s projects is Marienholm in Haapsalu, a new residential district in an exceptional coastal landscape. As explained by Valdur, the commercial development combines apartment buildings, public and semi-public spaces and close connections to the sea to create a coherent living environment. “In a way, this is a bit like an Astrid Lindgren world,” smiles the architect. “We’ve managed to incorporate 360-degree views and hidden away things like unattractive parking spaces.”

Narva. Photo: Tõnu Tunnel

Cultural centre and academy of security

SIURU – Tartu Downtown Cultural Centre is the winning proposal for Tartu’s new downtown cultural centre. The ambitious project brings together culture, public spaces, a park and the riverfront – significantly changing the second-largest city in Estonia. “Conceived as a landscape-like building, SIURU forms a new cultural heart for Tartu – a hybrid construction including a museum, a cinema and commercial spaces – while connecting the city centre more closely with the Emajõgi River,” explains architect Markus Kaasik.

At the time of completion, the Estonian Academy of Security Sciences in Narva was the largest timber building in the Baltics. Its location in Narva is equally significant, bringing an ambitious state institution and high-quality contemporary architecture to Estonia’s eastern border city. “The building looks simple but it’s quite complex and controversial,” says Kaasik. “It includes a rapid response unit, a school with seminar rooms, as well as accommodation. In one way, it’s very open, yet also very private.”

SIURU. Photo: 3+1 architects

Human questions in architecture

One of the main challenges for architecture, according to 3+1, will be finding a better balance between environmental responsibility, economic reality and architectural quality. “Sustainability increasingly means more than energy efficiency,” says Harkmaa. “We need to design buildings that last, can adapt over time and use materials intelligently. Renovation and transformation of existing buildings will become increasingly important, while timber construction, prefabrication and new digital tools continue to create new possibilities.”

Artificial intelligence is also changing the way in which architects work. “For us, technology remains a tool rather than a goal,” adds Harkmaa. “Architecture still deals with very human questions: how a place feels, how people meet, how daylight enters a room, how materials age and how a building becomes part of its surroundings.”