The old sea fortress by the sea is not just a historical building – it is a witness that has seen both hope and suffering, revolutions and changes. Reconceptualizing the Patarei Sea Fortress means taking responsibility for giving a new life to a classicist defensive structure built in the 19th century, while respecting the memory of its difficult times.

Built in 1840, Kalaranna Fort – as Patarei was originally called – is today part of Europe’s architectural heritage. This is no coincidence. The building’s powerful silhouette by the sea, classicist proportions and massive limestone masonry tell the story of a time when architecture had to be both beautiful and durable. Our concept is based on the idea that the Patarei Sea Fortress will become a gateway to new opportunities – to new ideas, experiences and tastes.

The project covers a total of approximately 32,000 m² of rentable and saleable space, of which over 14,500 m² is office space. The real challenge is how to transform a former prison into a place where people want to work, live and meet. Building a museum is a step into the future that helps commemorate the victims and keeps their stories alive – but at the same time, we are creating spaces that serve the needs of today.

As the first heritage-protected building, we are applying for LEED certification, which requires every decision to be considered from a sustainability perspective. Together with our partner Hayashi-Grossschmidt Architecture, whose “Sky Arch” concept won the architectural competition for the courtyards and glass roofs, we are creating an environment where history and future merge organically. The winner of the competition, HGA, will design the courtyards and outdoor areas of the sea fortress in collaboration with the chief designer of the sea fortress, Arhitekt 11.

In the summer of 2025, the promised volume for the Memorial Museum of the Victims of Communism will be ready, but the story of the entire complex is only just beginning.