Tallinn City Government has adopted the detailed plan for the Krulli quarter, giving the green light for the redevelopment of the historic Franz Krull machine factory site in Põhja-Tallinn. The plan will turn the former industrial zone into a vibrant urban space that combines residential and business functions while preserving its heritage value.

Põhja-Tallinn is undergoing major urban transformations. Traditional factory districts are being vacated by heavy industry and replaced with small-scale production and business activities. To ensure long-term vitality and urban coherence, these areas must be diversified to include not only housing but also offices, workplaces, and leisure spaces. The revival of the former metal and machinery factory, established on Kopli Street over 125 years ago, aims to create a modern and mixed-use city quarter.

Deputy Mayor for Urban Planning Madle Lippus highlighted the significance of the former factory’s transformation:"The opening of the Krulli quarter marks an important step in Tallinn’s development. Thanks to its strategic location and excellent public transport connections, we have the opportunity to establish a new central area in Põhja-Tallinn, where living, working, and services are all within easy reach. This will enhance the area’s appeal while helping to preserve and celebrate Tallinn’s historical identity.”

The 10.25-hectare planning area is located in the Kalamaja district, between Kopli and Volta streets and the railway. Under the detailed plan, the former production-zoned plots (Kopli 70, 70a and 70b; Volta 1b, 1c, 1d and 1e) will be reorganized into ten commercial-residential plots, two residential plots, five commercial plots, one plot for public buildings, one for public use, three transport plots, and one for production.

The area features a diverse building stock that includes architecturally valuable structures from different eras. The surroundings include both heritage wooden houses and modern office and industrial buildings of varying height.
The plan grants building rights for residential and commercial buildings, a kindergarten, and the reconstruction and extension of heritage-listed buildings. It also addresses landscaping, greenery, access roads, parking, and utility networks.

Thanks to its proximity to the city centre and good pedestrian and public transport links, it is spatially appropriate to develop apartment buildings and supportive functions on the site of the former Krull factory. Particular emphasis will be placed on safe pedestrian routes and locating car parking in underground levels or parking structures.

The plan was authored by Andres Alver and compiled by K-Projekt AS. The concept for the quarter was developed by Danish architecture firm COBE. The full planning documents are available in Tallinn’s planning register.
Illustrations by COBE Architects, KOKO AB, and HGA AB.