Our team shares recommendations from the Open House Tallinn program. Next, interior architect Evelin Kruus shares her suggestions and thoughts. She graduated from the Estonian Academy of Arts with a degree in interior architecture and is a member of the Estonian Association of Interior Architects. In addition, she works as a real estate and event photographer.
What does good architecture/design mean to You?
Good architecture/design is definitely well thought out and based on needs. In architecture, this could mean fitting well into the environment and having good accessibility. In design, it’s about user-friendliness and quality, while in interiors, it’s about creating a good indoor climate and balancing functionality with aesthetics.
Highlight 3-5 objects from the OHT 2024 program – why these in particular?
This year’s event focuses on “accessibility and inclusion.” Based on this, I would highlight Mustamäe State Gymnasium, the Joint Ministries Building, and Stereo House by Larsen. Each of these addresses the main theme in its own way: at Mustamäe State Gymnasium, different user groups are carefully considered to ensure their inclusion and accessibility throughout the building (visually impaired, hearing impaired, and people with mobility issues). In the Joint Ministries Building, the theme of inclusion is reflected in the building’s work structure (multiple ministries housed together), and in Stereo House, inclusion (social interaction) is emphasized through the architectural form and usability of spaces like shared areas—kitchen, living room, gym, terraces, and more.
Why do You recommend people attend OHT?
The Open House event is a great opportunity to peek into buildings and spaces that are usually off-limits. The OHT team has gathered detailed information from archival research and contacted architects and building managers to offer visitors a highly informative and memorable experience. The program is diverse—behind the “closed doors” this year, there are over 40 objects, each with its own story.
Recommend a couple of books or films – why these?
I would recommend my favorite book of the year so far—Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Be Useful. While it’s full of beautiful ideas and helpful insights, one stands out: “Goals are hard to achieve—every day, every week, every month. But you know what’s even harder? Living a life you hate. That’s really hard.”
