When will the new Loodusmaja be completed?
The building is scheduled for completion in 2026, with the Estonian Natural History Museum set to open its new permanent exhibition to guests in early 2027.
How big will this house be?
The planned permanent exhibition area spans about 1,500 square meters. The closed net area of the building itself, accommodating several other institutions alongside the Estonian Natural History Museum, is projected to be 24,660 square meters.
What will the museum's new permanent exhibition be about?
The theme of the new permanent exhibition is The Art of Coexistence. The idea grew out of the ambition to talk about man as a part of nature. With whom do we share this planet? What kind of relationship do we have with each other? What do we need to have a future here? The critical state of the Earth shows that living together is a great and complex art and we have to learn it together.
How is the content of the permanent exhibition put together?
The permanent exhibition is one of the museum's most important tools for communicating its messages. It gives a face to the entire museum and vice versa. We have done a lot of preliminary work in order to map important topics and sift out what is meaningful for our museum. We have visited a lot of different museums in Europe, met with colleagues there, made a thorough collection of ideas among museum employees and external experts. Visitors' engagement meetings have also been an important part in order to understand their needs and expectations, as well as their level of knowledge and their relationship with nature. In the course of the work, an understanding has emerged of how the Estonian Natural History Museum should differ from other natural museums, what topics to cover and how to bring them to visitors. Work on the content continues at a detailed level during the exhibition design stage.
Why is the museum made of wood?
Wood is chosen for its flexibility, environmental benefits, and positive impact on indoor climate. Building with wood significantly reduces the environmental footprint compared to materials like concrete. Additionally, wood has the capacity to sequester carbon, contributing to mitigating climate change. Embracing wooden architecture sets an example for sustainability and innovation.
Why are you moving from your current location to a new building?
The decision to relocate stems from the need for increased space and modern amenities to accommodate growing collections and expand educational initiatives. While the current location served its purpose, limitations became evident, hindering accessibility and educational outreach. The move from Lai Street enables the museum to enhance visitor experiences and fulfill its mission more effectively.
What will happen to the exhibits and collections of the old museum?
The exhibits from the current museum will either be integrated into the new permanent exhibition or housed in modern storage facilities. This transition ensures improved accessibility and preservation of the museum's collections, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Will there be any exhibits or programs in the new museum that also remember the history of the old building?
While the primary focus of the new museum revolves around Estonian nature, biodiversity and environmental issues, efforts will be made to honor the heritage of the old building. Elements of the museum's history will be incorporated into the permanent exhibition, providing insight into its evolution and significance.
What happens to the house on Lai Street when you move out?
The fate of the Laia Street building lies with the Riigi Kinnisvara Aktsiaselts. However, efforts will be made to ensure its preservation and repurpose it in a manner that respects its historical and architectural significance. Meanwhile, the museum will continue to offer exciting visitor experiences until its departure in September 2026.