Pelgulinna State Gymnasium (PERG) outdoor space by Kino maastikuarhitektid
Estonia / Built in 2023 /
kino.maastikuarhitektid.ee
Pelgulinna State Gymnasium (PERG) is located in Tallinn, Estonia, and its outdoor space was designed as a dynamic and pedagogical extension of the indoor learning environment. The goal was to create a climate-resilient landscape that responds to local weather and seasonal changes, while supporting ecological learning and inclusive play.
The design transforms the schoolyard into a multifunctional environment where water, planting, and topography are used as active teaching tools. A central feature is the integrated stormwater system, which captures rainwater from rooftops and hard surfaces and channels it visibly through swales and basins. This system both mitigates flooding and offers students direct engagement with hydrological processes.
Plantings are diverse and native, emphasizing seasonal change and ecological literacy. Topographic variation provides shelter from wind and defines informal outdoor “rooms” that support individual study, small group gatherings, or organized outdoor teaching.
Outdoor classrooms and seating areas are distributed around the site, with materials chosen for their robustness and tactile variety. The playground areas are embedded in the landscape rather than isolated, and accessible routes are provided for all users. In winter, snow is stored in designated zones and used for seasonal play and sculptural activities.
The project exemplifies how school landscapes can be climate-sensitive, beautiful, and educational — expanding the possibilities for learning and play in public education systems.
• Other landscape architecture offices involved in the design of the landscape:
Kino maastikuarhitektid
• Architecture offices involved in the design:
Kavakava Architects
• Other credits:
Client: Riigi Kinnisvara AS
