Estonian Landscape Architects Union / annual award 2021 winner
Location
Kääriku küla, Otepää vald
Landscape architecture
Edgar Kaare, Liina Einla (Maastikuarhitektuuribüroo TajuRuum)
Kristian Nigul, Kadi Nigul (VÄLI)
Project team
Arhitekt11 architecture), Siim Porila (electrical installation, Silmani Elekter), Mario Luik (training tools, Spordiareenid), Siim Tiigimäe (3D illustrations, 3D Stuudio)
Commissioned by
Tehvandi Spordikeskus
Design
2016
Completed
2017–2020 I-V etapp, 2021 VI-VII etapp
Photos
Kääriku Spordikeskus, Edgar Kaare

  847

The foundation Tehvandi Sports Centre managing and developing the Tartu University Sports Centre in Kääriku was assigned the task to create a place for high-level sports camps already in 2012. One of the main tasks was to create an environment where athletes could feel at home during the long periods spent in sports camps. The vision given to Edgar Kaare and his team was highly simple in its complexity – to maintain the essence of the historic centre and create a new natural environment for activities that would consider the specifics of various sports. The best feedback comes from the customers who by now have found a suitable place for doing sports on every step of the facilities as well as a place for relaxation on every patch of lawn. Both the employees and customers of the centre are proud of the new sports oasis amidst the rolling hillocks of Otepää Natural Park.
Kristjan Karis, Board member, Tehvandi Spordikeskus

Kääriku sports centre is marked by a strong identity and rich history and, therefore, required neither dramatic changes nor new image. Instead, the aim was to discreetly highlight the current features and also value and appreciate the landscape. The existing sports and leisure areas were complemented with various additional facilities taking the centre to the next level. The design highlights the exquisite rolling landscape in Otepää and the historic building complex. Priority has been given to retaining the beauty of the landscape, the best functionalities and economical future. The project focussed on the beautiful natural environment that allows to concentrate on training and let the mind rest.

Edgar Kaare