Fotografiska Tallinn, a new sanctum of photography

Fotografiska has instantly become Tallinn’s new favourite destination. The photography museum’s concrete surfaces pay homage to the industrial history of the building.

A small shop and café by the museum entrance.

Fotografiska Tallinn, opened in June 2019, is the first sister museum to the photography museum Fotografiska in Stockholm based on a franchising principle.

The museum is located in the lively Telliskivi district of Tallinn in an old industrial building, which was completed in 1905. Next to the museum, there are trendy restaurants, design shops and a flea market on Saturdays.

The renovation was designed by Salto Architects, and interior architect Toomas Korb was responsible for the interior design.

Fotografiska Tallinn is located in the popular Telliskivi district. The building’s hallmark red brick facade was repaired during the renovation process.
The museum's exhibitions and events have attracted around 200 000 visitors during the first four months.
An impressive concrete stair hall connects the exhibition floors.

In addition to two museum floors, Fotografiska houses a café, a shop and event facilities in the downstairs lobby, and a beautiful restaurant on the top floor. The view from the restaurant terrace over Tallinn is simply spectacular.

It is hard to believe that a few years ago, the building – and the entire neighborhood – was empty and derelict.

It is hard to believe that a few years ago, the building – and the entire neighborhood – was empty and derelict. The architects wanted to preserve as much of the old structures as possible and the building’s industrial history is present particularly in the majestic concrete stair halls.

The museum's restaurant is led by chef Peter Pihel, who has worked previously in Sweden and France.
The restaurant’s rooftop terrace goes around the building on three sides. The furniture includes Palissade bar stools and Terrazzo tables from Hay.

Outside the building, there is a statuesque route down from the upper floors. The stylish restaurant on the top floor operates on a zero-waste principle. The museum is open seven days a week, from 9 a.m. to up to 1 a.m. at night.

Fotografiska Tallinn, Telliskivi 60a/8, 10412 Tallinn, Estonia.

Text: Anu Karttunen/Avotakka Photos: Tiina-Liina Uudam/Fotografiska and Terje Ugandi/Salto Architects

Previous story
Next story




Dive into Finnish Design Shop’s amazing Black Friday deals – up to 50% off!

Make it yours

For the love of design

Design Stories is Finnish Design Shop's own online magazine, that takes you to beautiful Nordic homes, introduces new products and beloved icons – and much more!

Go to the Design Stories front page

Shop Nordic design

Design Stories is provided by Finnish Design Shop, the world’s largest online store specialized in Nordic design.

Discover our selection

Buy & sell authentic vintage

Franckly.com is a curated online marketplace for pre-owned design maintained by Finnish Design Shop.

Find treasures at Franckly