It’s time to get to know the Open House Tallinn team. This time, we share the thoughts of curator Mari-Liis Hindre-Merilind.
Who are you and what do you do on a daily basis?
I’m a landscape architect by profession, and at the moment, in addition to curating Open House Tallinn, I spend most of my days with my little family.
How did you find your way into the field of architecture, urban space, or design?
Through my profession, really. I initially studied in the field of natural sciences, but urban space has always fascinated me — it connects so many disciplines and speaks to such a wide audience. It’s endlessly exciting!
What interests you most about architecture?
I’m most intrigued by how space influences people. The small details in our environment shape our daily decisions, and the way we design spaces ultimately shapes society itself.
Which place in Tallinn always makes you rethink the city?
Those lifeless urban spaces that no one has taken the time to think about. Places you wouldn’t want to linger in, that make you prefer taking a different route. A city environment should have a positive effect on health and be user-friendly for everyone who lives there.
Which space or building has inspired you recently? And in which historical building would you like to live or work?
In general, I find inspiration in spaces where attention has been paid to detail, where challenges have been thoughtfully resolved, and where the character of the place has been respected. Among historical buildings, I admire those where old structures have been carefully restored — where modern comforts and technical solutions have been added while honoring and highlighting the original. I love when innovation meets history — when every design decision has a clear and meaningful purpose.
What change would you like to see in Tallinn’s urban space in the future?
Development — and fast! Tallinn’s urban environment feels outdated in so many ways. It should evolve into a space that is pleasant and comfortable for all kinds of users.
Which building or tour would you recommend visiting this year, and why?
My recommendations this year would be, first, the Hungarian Cultural Center (Liszt Institute), where visitors can explore the history of Toompea and see medieval layers in the building’s cellar. Second, the Kopli Kindergarten, which is especially close to my heart — it’s the first purpose-built kindergarten in Tallinn and still functions as one today. And third, the Nõmme Elevator, one of last year’s most popular sites. It may be hard to imagine what its future holds, but the view from the top is truly one of a kind.
