Estonian Centre Project Update - Technology will be a key component of new centre’s design

• Prindi

Lisainfo

Esmaspäev, 02 Aprill 2018 19:00

Eesti Elu / Estonian Life Online

At co-working space Lift99, in a complex called the Telliskivi Creative City in Tallinn, Estonia, there is a quote from former U.S. President Barack Obama stencilled on the wall:

“I should have called the Estonians when we were setting up our health-care web site.”

Estonia has built a well-deserved reputation as being forward-thinking in its approach to building a technologically-savvy society, as reported in The New Yorker in February 2017 in an article entitled “Estonia, the Digital Republic.”

It is therefore fitting that the proposed new Estonian Centre will incorporate the latest technology into its design, and that the community is keen that this be given careful thought and consideration.

But this will entail more than ensuring that the centre is completely wi-fi accessible and that there is highly functional audio-visual equipment – though, of course, this will be the case.

It also means that the technology will enable community members to use the space interactively and creatively.

Estonian Centre architect Alar Kongats explains:

“Besides have a business centre that will provide all the necessary equipment to run meetings, classes and events – we could look at providing a ‘maker centre’ that actually allows people to access different kinds of programs to make their own publications and posters for events.”

There is also the potential to hold workshops and seminars on how to use such equipment and programs.

Another interesting idea could be a sound studio type of space that would be part of the music room for the kindergarten. It would enable recordings to be made of songs and music.

The idea is to create an interactive centre where people can spend time and have an interesting and engaging experience. For example, when parents are waiting to pick up their children from school or other event, they can spend time accessing cultural information via computer screens of archival material, films, etc.

During the community consultation process, those taking part often mentioned the importance of having a technologically advanced facility.

“People want us to ‘do it right’ so it is cutting-edge and the most up-to-date possible,” Alar said.

The user groups consulted also said they would appreciate having high quality equipment that is easy to use. Many organizations are connecting to Estonia in real time to hold events and to simulcast events.

Acoustics are also important for the groups like choirs and the need for sound insulation between walls is a key consideration as well.

Technology can also play an important role in how artwork, heritage displays and other artifacts are presented. Lighting is also a key element here.

Major festivals such as EstDocs are currently using outside space such as the HotDocs Cinema on Bloor Street as major event space, so it would be ideal if the new space could accommodate the screenings and events that are part of this popular annual event.

Alar also explained that advanced technology also covers the way the building is operated, such as the heating, cooling and security systems.

“The building manager may have access to the facility via a smart phone,” he said. “This would enable controlling the temperatures remotely to, for example, turn up the heat prior to an event. This will enable the efficient operation of these systems.”

Consultant expertise will be engaged to ensure noise and vibration from the subway system does not affect the function of the space and its events.

A reminder that the next community information session will be held on Wednesday, April 4 7 – 8.30 p.m. at the Estonian House. Please bring your thoughts, questions and ideas!

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