The Danish architecture firm Cobe has been tasked to turn the historic Krulli steelworks into a mixed-use district – with housing and offices – in the Estonian capital. The masterplan is based on transforming, reusing (from materials and components to entire buildings), and preserving built heritage situated in the heart of Tallinn.

This innovation hub – a key project in the plan, kickstarting the development – is currently being designed in detail, and 2027 is the year it is expected to be completed. Featuring workspaces, cafés, stores, artists’ studios, and exhibition galleries, three neighboring halls will be transformed and complemented with new spaces constructed from timber. All existing elements will be reused, from limestone walls to concrete columns and panels and on to foundations and steel trusses, ensuring the preservation of the historical facades and minimizing carbon impact.