“Estonia boasts an unusual amount of space per capita. Over a half of our country is covered with pristine nature: trees swaying overhead, bogs fading into the mist, erratic boulders sticking out of the sea along the coastline. Such wealth of intact nature is rarely found elsewhere in Europe. The more life concentrates in cities, the more humans become estranged from the woods and seas. Yet humans, too, are part of nature, of the animal kingdom: we ourselves do not remember but the genes know. A return to nature is as if a journey to one’s self.” [14]

The goal of this thesis was to create a new building for the Estonian Museum of Natural History, which would be in line with the requirements of modern museum. The project for a new museum of nature was created on to the property at Paljassaare peninsula next to the Katariina guay. Chosen location is unique because of its untouched nature and coastal atmosphere. The building gives contrast for the nature nearby thanks to its long design and the corten steel facade.

In the process of this thesis the most challenging task was to find the perfect location for the museum. Two main points for finding the location was proximity to nature and at the same time being beneficial on the point of urban planning and development. The design of the building was created in consideration of seashore area and already existing Katariina guay. The multitude of exhibits makes the building especially interesting. There are exhibits in the museum, on the roof of the museum and also on the sidewalks outside of the museum. In addition to the main building there is a new bird watching tower which design is inspired by the main building. The building is designed in compliance of energy effiency and fire safety requirements.

The Estonian Museum of Natural History is designed for the Estonian people to remember and relearn all the aspects of the nature, its endless life forms and usefulness for our souls and surroundings. The museum of nature is a great way for children and tourists to learn Estonian vegetation, fauna and its changes through time.