The City of Tallinn has started an innovative urban development project in Mustamäe, where Everster OÜ will be responsible for the complete renovation of apartment buildings.
The goal of the project is to transform existing living environments into modern, energy-efficient, and socially cohesive spaces. “Neighborhood-based renovation is not merely an aesthetic upgrade, but an opportunity to launch a comprehensive wave of renovation in Tallinn. SOFTacademy is the pilot for this direction and hopefully also an inspiration for other neighborhoods,” said Deputy Mayor Madle Lippus, who emphasized that inclusion and a holistic approach to neighborhoods are the future direction of urban planning.
SOFTacademy is the first pilot project of its kind in Tallinn, focusing on neighborhood engagement and the holistic renewal of urban space in accordance with the principles of the New European Bauhaus. It serves as a model for implementing the green transition and inclusive urban planning together with local residents. As part of the project, apartment buildings located at Akadeemia tee 4, 6, 14, and 22 in Mustamäe’s first microdistrict will be thoroughly upgraded to energy class A, and the urban space between them will be revitalized. The buildings will be renovated using factory-produced modular elements, allowing for fast and high-quality execution while minimizing noise and disruption for residents. A notable innovation within the project is the addition of elevators to two buildings for the first time during renovation, significantly improving accessibility and enhancing overall living comfort.
The renovation work is being carried out by Everster OÜ, with whom a construction contract has been signed and preparations are already underway. According to Tarmo Valdre, a member of the company’s management board, this is a large-scale and time-intensive project, but the team is ready for the challenge: “There’s a lot of work and the schedule is tight, but our previous experience shows that it’s achievable. Cooperation with the client, the city, and local residents has gone smoothly. Full-scale construction will begin once the building designs are completed and the construction notice is issued.”
Neighborhood-based renovation enables a comprehensive modernization of the living environment. Through joint planning and implementation, a visually cohesive urban space is created, which also strengthens the sense of community. This approach helps reduce renovation costs, shortens the construction period, and improves spatial quality.
The renovated apartment buildings and updated courtyard areas are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.
The SOFTacademy project is funded by the European Urban Initiative and the Estonian Business and Innovation Agency (EIS).