The agenda is preliminary and subject to change to ensure the best possible access for participants.
Press Visit: TARU Nature House
About the event
Why Estonia? A Small Country with Big Ambitions in Timber Architecture
Estonia is one of Europe's leading exporters of prefabricated wooden buildings, with decades of experience in timber construction and engineering. Today, that expertise is increasingly reflected in ambitious architectural projects in Estonia, demonstrating how timber can be used in large-scale, technically complex and architecturally distinctive buildings.
At the heart of this press trip is the opening of the TARU Nature House, Estonia’s largest public timber building, and the 20th anniversary of the International Timber Architecture Conference. TARU is a landmark example of modern timber engineering, bringing together Estonian expertise and international technology to create a building featuring 5,280 m³ of CLT and glulam structures.
The press trip offers a first-hand look at Estonia’s timber architecture and industry – from landmark wooden buildings in Tallinn to the companies, engineers and architects turning ambitious ideas into reality.
What to Expect
Exclusive Access to Estonia’s Timber Architecture, Engineering and Industry
- A landmark opening: Visit the newly completed TARU Nature House, Estonia’s largest public timber building, and discover the architectural and engineering solutions behind this ambitious project.
- 20 years of timber architecture: Attend the 20th anniversary of the International Timber Architecture Conference, bringing together leading architects, engineers and industry experts to explore the future of building with wood.
- Tallinn’s timber architecture highlights: Explore some of the capital’s most remarkable wooden buildings, showcasing Estonia’s architectural heritage and contemporary timber design.
- Meet the people behind the projects: Conversations with Estonian timber companies, entrepreneurs, architects and engineers about innovation, manufacturing, international cooperation and the future of timber construction.
- Estonia’s broader perspective: An opportunity to meet senior representatives of the Estonian government, potentially including the Prime Minister, and discuss the role of timber construction and the wood industry in Estonia’s economy and future development.
This project is co-funded by the European Union.
Program
We will meet you at Tallinn Airport and arrange your transfer to the Hyatt Place hotel for check-in. All transportation throughout the press trip will be provided.
The rest of the evening is free for you to explore Tallinn, catch up on work or simply relax.
Pick-up from the hotel
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Introduction to the press visit
Overview of what will happen over the next few days. The introduction will be made by Kadri Paju, International Media Project Manager at Enterprise Estonia.
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E-Estonia briefing
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Visit to Thermory and tour in Tallinn
Thermory is an Estonian company and a global leader in thermally modified wood products and sauna solutions. Its product range includes decking, cladding, wall panelling, flooring and sauna materials, with over 90% of its production exported to more than 50 countries worldwide.
The visit will begin at Thermory's showroom, followed by a guided tour of selected timber architecture projects in Tallinn featuring Thermory products, offering a first-hand look at how Estonian wood materials are used in contemporary architecture.
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Lunch
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Guided tour of Pelgulinna State Gymnasium (PERG)
Winner of the 2023 Estonian Wood Building of the Year Award, Pelgulinna State Gymnasium is an outstanding example of sustainable timber architecture. Sustainability was a key priority throughout its design and construction, with wood used extensively throughout the building – from load-bearing structures and acoustic wall panels to ceiling beams and finely detailed handrails.
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Opening of TARU Nature House
Interview opportunities
Following the opening, there will be an opportunity to interview key people involved in the development and construction of TARU Nature House:
- Margit Martinson, Environmental Board – involved in the initial development of the TARU concept
- Rauno Rausk, Construction Group Nordecon
- Indrek Peil, architect, Kavakava
- Hindrek Werder, State Real Estate Ltd (RKAS) – TARU construction project manager
Please let us know in advance whom you would be interested in interviewing so we can coordinate the arrangements.
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Dinner with International Timber Architecture Conference speakers and timber industry entrepreneurs
Pick-up from the hotel
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International Timber Architecture Conference: "Wood: The Key to a Better Living Environment"
The conference celebrates its 20th anniversary, bringing together architects, engineers and industry experts to discuss the latest developments and future of timber architecture.
English interpretation will be available for all presentations through the conference's interpretation system. Link to the official webpage for information about speakers is here.
Dinner and Wood Building of the Year Awards Ceremony
An evening celebrating outstanding achievements in Estonian timber architecture, including the announcement of the Wood Building of the Year award winners.
List of items we recommend bringing with you:
- Warm & Weatherproof Clothing: For your reference, early November in Estonia can be cold, damp and windy. Temperatures usually range between +2°C and +11°C, with changeable weather. We recommend packing layers, a warm windproof jacket, and waterproof outerwear. As the programme includes outdoor visits and demonstrations, please bring sturdy, comfortable and water-resistant shoes suitable for potentially wet or muddy terrain.
- Smart Casual Dress Code: For indoor sessions and dinners, a smart casual style is appropriate. No formal business attire is required.
Travel Expenses & Logistics
- Hosted Costs: Return flights, local transfers, hotel accommodation between November 3-6, and meals within the official program are covered by Enterprise Estonia.
- Exclusions: Personal expenses such as minibar, laundry, extra room service or the hotel’s relaxation area are not covered.
- Chatham House Rule: Please note that lunches and dinners with officials are generally conducted under the Chatham House Rule. If you wish to use direct quotes, please seek approval from the speaker first.
- Accommodation: Hyatt Place Hotel