While the surroundings of Lake Harku are already a favorite spot for walkers, nature lovers, and wellness enthusiasts in Tallinn, the area is about to get a new lease of life with the Arcojärve development. The project will add value to both local residents and the wider community. CEO of Arco Vara, Kristina Mustonen, explains how the shoreline of Lake Harku will change and what benefits visitors to the area can expect.
According to Mustonen, the focus of the Arcojärve development project is on an environmentally friendly and community-driven lifestyle, offering a new and versatile space to live and work while preserving and enhancing the existing natural environment. “The goal of the project is to maintain as much of the area’s natural beauty and greenery as possible, including the iconic willow trees along the shore of Lake Harku. The lakeside area will also be modernized to make it even more attractive to walkers and those who enjoy an active lifestyle,” said Mustonen.
One of the most anticipated changes that the development of Arcojärve will bring is the modernization and accessibility of the beach area of Lake Harku. Renovations include the demolition of old buildings currently on the property and the construction of new pathways and recreation areas that will make the beach an even more pleasant place for daily relaxation. “Once the quarter is complete, there will be a connection between Pikaliiva Street and the beach, providing safe and convenient access for locals,” clarified Mustonen, adding that it is especially important that the area preserves its natural atmosphere while offering modern conveniences, such as a beach house where visitors can enjoy coffee or light snacks. She pointed out that the exact function of the beach building is yet to be determined, but the vision of both the city and the developer has been largely the same — ensuring that the building adds value to the beach.
Mustonen added that they are working closely with city planners to ensure the smooth integration of the development into the area. “It is not just a real estate project, but part of a larger plan to develop the area around Lake Harku in such a way that it supports both local residents and the wider community,” she explained.
According to Oliver Alver, Deputy Director of the Tallinn City Planning Department, the cooperation with Arco Vara has been fruitful – public interest and the idea of a high-quality urban space were taken into account whilst drafting the terms of reference in the architectural competition. He points out that the winning design for the property located at Paldiski Road 124b proposed expanding the park by the beach into the planned development area, connecting the green areas between the public park and the buildings into one spacious green area. “It is positive for the district and its residents that the public and actively used beach area and beachside park will expand to the north shore of the lake. The locals will have more opportunities for outdoor activities and wider access to the lake,” added Alver.
The whole area is designed with plenty of greenery around the low-rise residential (no more than four stories) and commercial premises, which creates a pleasant and cohesive environment. “The public town square planned in the heart of the development will become the center of community life, where pedestrians, visitors to cafes and employees of nearby businesses meet. The ground-floor commercial spaces will provide easy access to local services and shops right next to home,” added Mustonen.
Like the lakeside area, the homes being built in the Arcojärve development are designed with comfort and modern lifestyle needs in mind, offering an attractive living environment for people at different stages of life and for families of all sizes. “For example, the selection of apartments ranges from one-bedroom to five-bedroom units, and future homeowners will have the opportunity to choose between different layout options,” said Mustonen, providing some examples. According to the developer, customers will be involved in the process early on, so that future residents can contribute to creating their homes.
The first stages of construction are planned to begin in the second quarter of next year, and the development will create a living environment where all essential services and conveniences are within walking distance. This means that residents don’t have to leave the area to get everything they need, whether it be shops, services, or recreational activities.
