GREEN TRAILS ON A STEEL RAILS;
ADAPTIVE REUSE IN MOTION Adeolu Afolabi
History
The tracks in Paljassaare serve as a living timeline, tracing the area’s journey from a military stronghold to its present-day makeshift identity. The military presence here dates back to the 18th century, with fortifications built on Väike-Karli island as early as 1727. A significant transformation occurred between 1912 and 1917, when Suur Paljassaare and Väike Paljassaare were merged by filling in the sea during the construction of the Mine Harbour, connecting the islands to the Kopli Peninsula.
In 1912, work began on a battery for Peter the Great’s Naval Fortress in Paljassaare. Though unfinished by 1917, this construction shaped the peninsula’s current form. Traces of this past, including the naval fortress battery, the railway embankments, and the Katariina Quay, are still visible today.
By 1913, the construction of a naval fortress railway network began, connecting Katariina Quay to Suur Paljassaare by 1921. A narrow-gauge railway was added between 1925 and 1926. Most subsequent construction occurred during the Soviet era, when the area shifted from defense to housing military storage facilities and workshops.
For nearly 50 years, Paljassaare was a closed military reserve. Ironically, this isolation preserved the area’s ecology, allowing nature to flourish amidst military infrastructure. Today, Paljassaare’s historical layers are intertwined with its ecological and cultural significance.
© Adeolu Afolabi
Play to listen to the audio file
Adaptive Reuse in Motion
© Adeolu Afolabi
In our dynamic world where urban landscapes are in a perpetual state of transformation, the concept of adaptive reuse stands as a beacon of sustainability, often enhancing historic structures into new spaces that cater to the needs of modern society. These projects are driven by the imperative to prioritize flexibility for the future. They breathe new life into old infrastructures while simultaneously preserving their cultural and architectural heritage.
A few examples of adaptive reuse railway projects;
- The Goods Line, Sydney, Australia: A rail corridor reimagined as a pedestrian and cyclist pathway.
- Viaduc des Arts, Paris: A former rail viaduct now a creative hub in the 12th arrondissement.
- Rosheim-St Nabor Railway, France: Converted into an art-focused cycle and walking track.
- South Netherlands Railway: Repurposed into pedestrian routes, cycling paths, and green spaces for birdwatchers.
These projects showcases how re-imagining old infrastructure through ‘adaptive reuse’ can foster community connections, enhance ecological value, and create vibrant public spaces.
Have found out that abandoned rail tracks and accompanying structures often create negative impact on a city and its surrounding areas, and are often referred to as ‘‘rust belt’’. They impact land development, traffic flow, the ecological environment, and quality of life of almost everything around them. Transportation planners usually refer to abandoned railway tracks as a cause of traffic congestion because they block traffic and divide urban spaces. Other researchers find that abandoned railways cause lower property values, also decreasing number of new developments, and are often an urban blight that results in a poor-quality urban environment nearby.
But this is not the case with Paljassaare, Paljassaare, an utopian imagery, a bird paradise, a retreat area, an out-of-sight hideout, a city storage space, the heart of its metabolism, a reflection space, a nature escape often filled with the distinct smell of wastewater treatment plant; is a fiercely contested area in Tallinn. Dotted by speculative future scenarios of various Neo liberal developments, it is enclosed in-between neoliberal dreams and a preserved natural landscape.
But this is not the case with Paljassaare, Paljassaare, an utopian imagery, a bird paradise, a retreat area, an out-of-sight hideout, a city storage space, the heart of its metabolism, a reflection space, a nature escape often filled with the distinct smell of wastewater treatment plant; is a fiercely contested area in Tallinn. Dotted by speculative future scenarios of various Neo liberal developments, it is enclosed in-between neoliberal dreams and a preserved natural landscape.
Though the
Paljassaare
railway lines has somewhat lost its function, the
adaptive reuse of these abandoned tracks can help it regain some of its
charm and usefulness, breathing new life, and revitalizing the space.
Furthermore, these sorts of reuse adopted with different strategies would
have a positive impact on the space, creating an inclusive, sustainable
environment. With an ultimate goal to build creative spaces where people
can thrive, have fun, feel empowered, and get inspired.
To strengthens its connectivity, we can integrate the use of this spaces into
the broader fabric of Paljassaare, prioritizing context-sensitive design, and ensuring that these spaces support both the historical significance and its
new, modern function.
This holistic approach would preserves the historical essence of these tracks,
creating vibrant, adaptable spaces that contribute to Tallinn's cultural identity and long-term sustainability. Merging the past with the present, the reuse of these track offers a pathway to more resilient, efficient, and livable urban environments.
adaptive reuse of these abandoned tracks can help it regain some of its
charm and usefulness, breathing new life, and revitalizing the space.
Furthermore, these sorts of reuse adopted with different strategies would
have a positive impact on the space, creating an inclusive, sustainable
environment. With an ultimate goal to build creative spaces where people
can thrive, have fun, feel empowered, and get inspired.
To strengthens its connectivity, we can integrate the use of this spaces into
the broader fabric of Paljassaare, prioritizing context-sensitive design, and ensuring that these spaces support both the historical significance and its
new, modern function.
This holistic approach would preserves the historical essence of these tracks,
creating vibrant, adaptable spaces that contribute to Tallinn's cultural identity and long-term sustainability. Merging the past with the present, the reuse of these track offers a pathway to more resilient, efficient, and livable urban environments.
‘The Rails-to-Trails program has
spread through Europe, Asia,
Australia, Germany,
the United Kingdom, Spain,
Belgium, and so on, where
hundreds of greenways have
been created from abandoned
railways, forming greenway
networks for cyclists and
pedestrians
(Rail to Trails, 2019).’
Present-Day Paljassaare
Reflecting on my first visit to Paljassaare, I could recall presenting a concept called "unboxing an uncertain future," where I explored its history, present state, and potential future, detailing what I had seen and heard about its likely future. This, somewhat made me think futuristically about the area.
One thing begs my attention looking at the map of Paljassaares, on any scale, the lines of the rail tracks are always visible, —unmistakable markers of its past, even though the knowledge of its past is very little, evidence of informal use tells a
different story.
‘They say that when everything has
perished, only material remains
as a last reminder of the legacies
left behind. Even though materials
are a major torchbearer of reality
in which we live, our understanding
of material things has been dramatically
impacted by the linguistic and
social turn in history’
perished, only material remains
as a last reminder of the legacies
left behind. Even though materials
are a major torchbearer of reality
in which we live, our understanding
of material things has been dramatically
impacted by the linguistic and
social turn in history’
The urban fringe of Paljassaare has been the backyard of the city of Tallinn hosting; waste treatment, waste processing, waste sorting, loud repair shops, Laevastiku quarters , social housing. Also with more recent developments reshaping the image of Paljassaare, has been the opening of the Pikakari beach (2006) at the tip of the peninsula and the Natura 2000 bird sanctuary (2005) in the north-western part. All these which seem to be important for the people living in a city. Additionally it seems to be a very diverse array of people who uses and visit these places.
According to the master plan of Northern Tallinn district, theses rail track and its setbacks, all over Paljassaare have been set aside for some distinctive use such as, bicycle paths, rail transport, pet walking, playground, green area related to green functions, necessary recreational activities and leisure functions.
While the rail tracks seem to be not in use in anyway, that seems not to be wholly true as the track already holds values for some people, - in a way of reuse. Some people have found values in making use of these abandoned tracks already, for example their is an evidence of a driveway across the track, evidence of people walking through it, of people working their pets, also some informal dump spots can be found along it.
The footprints of human and pets, makeshift driveways, and dump spot indicate that the Paljassaare rail tracks are far from forgotten.
The Essence of Adaptive Reuse
This approach stands in stark contrast to the conventional practice of demolishing or abandoning old infrastructures to make way for new construction, a process that consumes substantial resources and contributes to environmental waste. Adaptive reuse will not only conserve these valuable resources and history but also honors its cultural, historical, and architectural legacy in Paljassaare.
These rail tracks takes centre stage in this process of adaptive reuse in Paljassaare, they are living artifacts that narrate the tales of the past, bearing within them the essence of their time and place. By repurposing these tracks, spaces that are both functional and imbued with historical significance can be created.
In an era as this, marked by profound environmental challenges and a concerted global effort to reduce carbon footprints, repurposing these rail tracks would be a commendable and sustainable alternative to new construction or abandonment, thereby helping to preserve green areas and natural habitats.
These rail tracks takes centre stage in this process of adaptive reuse in Paljassaare, they are living artifacts that narrate the tales of the past, bearing within them the essence of their time and place. By repurposing these tracks, spaces that are both functional and imbued with historical significance can be created.
In an era as this, marked by profound environmental challenges and a concerted global effort to reduce carbon footprints, repurposing these rail tracks would be a commendable and sustainable alternative to new construction or abandonment, thereby helping to preserve green areas and natural habitats.
Play to listen to the audio file
Adaptive Reuse in Motion
© Tizian Wojan
© Tizian Wojan
© Tizian Wojan
About my Project
© Tizian Wojan
At the heart of Adaptive reuses of the rail tracks in Paljassaare is the act of Placemaking. Placemaking being the art of transforming spaces into vibrant, meaningful destinations. This is beyond aesthetics and functionality, it focuses on creating a sense of community and belonging. It helps to amplifying the unique essence of a space, making it resonate with its users.
It goes beyond just adding benches or plants; it’s about cultivating a vibe, an ambiance, a sense of belonging. It’s about infusing spaces with the soul. It's good to clarify that placemaking is not a rigid concept. It’s fluid, adaptable, and centers the community, understanding the unique essence of each space and amplifying it, helping to craft a destination that echo with the local culture and spirit.
This was demonstrated through the walk along a portion of the Paljassaare rail track, accompanied by an audio guide which was carefully crafted to immerse users in the wholesome experience, sharing my perspective and questioning what they think of the tracks present day realities and various evidence of its various re-uses, showing various points of its current usage which does not support a sustainable way of reuse, projecting into what it could likely be.
Endowing these tracks with meaning, as a space fit for a vibrant transformation, that has the capacity to support a sustainable reuse. Some seats were provided, to help participants break off the monotony of walking and standing the whole day, which is similar to the experience of people who walk there dogs on the track, inviting participants to make good use of them and immersing themselves in the atmosphere, To take a seat, relax and refresh after such a long walk. Logs of wood were made available for fire making to help heat up and provide warmth, with it’s warmth like a bridge to draw us all closer together.
Some subtle decorative elements were also available which are hint at the care and thought poured into this space. Soft lighting waving a gentle ambiance, transforming this once-neglected track into a welcoming haven. This process implies that places are products of deliberate intervention such as spatial planning, involving active and ongoing participation of users, participants. Active involvement of communities is important when making decisions concerning their living environment
So, what elevated these Paljassaare tracks? It’s ease of accessibility, the positive atmosphere it radiates walking along the tracks, the diverse activities it could host, and its ability to draw people back time and time again. By intertwining adaptive reuse with placemaking, I was able to create a communal focal point, a place where locals and visitors alike can connect, relax, use, and treasure; That’s the true essence of our walk and demonstration. But knowing fully well the challenges of this rail tracks, especially the route we took for the walk, which is typically the smell from the waste processing plant, I feel that the smell in itself is minimal to stop the use, and even if, we can always turn around and move away.
It goes beyond just adding benches or plants; it’s about cultivating a vibe, an ambiance, a sense of belonging. It’s about infusing spaces with the soul. It's good to clarify that placemaking is not a rigid concept. It’s fluid, adaptable, and centers the community, understanding the unique essence of each space and amplifying it, helping to craft a destination that echo with the local culture and spirit.
‘Spaces are no longer considered a
neutral backdrop for people’s lives
as space becomes a place when
endowed with meaning and value
(Cho et al., 2011:393; Tuan, 1979).’
neutral backdrop for people’s lives
as space becomes a place when
endowed with meaning and value
(Cho et al., 2011:393; Tuan, 1979).’
This was demonstrated through the walk along a portion of the Paljassaare rail track, accompanied by an audio guide which was carefully crafted to immerse users in the wholesome experience, sharing my perspective and questioning what they think of the tracks present day realities and various evidence of its various re-uses, showing various points of its current usage which does not support a sustainable way of reuse, projecting into what it could likely be.
Endowing these tracks with meaning, as a space fit for a vibrant transformation, that has the capacity to support a sustainable reuse. Some seats were provided, to help participants break off the monotony of walking and standing the whole day, which is similar to the experience of people who walk there dogs on the track, inviting participants to make good use of them and immersing themselves in the atmosphere, To take a seat, relax and refresh after such a long walk. Logs of wood were made available for fire making to help heat up and provide warmth, with it’s warmth like a bridge to draw us all closer together.
Some subtle decorative elements were also available which are hint at the care and thought poured into this space. Soft lighting waving a gentle ambiance, transforming this once-neglected track into a welcoming haven. This process implies that places are products of deliberate intervention such as spatial planning, involving active and ongoing participation of users, participants. Active involvement of communities is important when making decisions concerning their living environment
So, what elevated these Paljassaare tracks? It’s ease of accessibility, the positive atmosphere it radiates walking along the tracks, the diverse activities it could host, and its ability to draw people back time and time again. By intertwining adaptive reuse with placemaking, I was able to create a communal focal point, a place where locals and visitors alike can connect, relax, use, and treasure; That’s the true essence of our walk and demonstration. But knowing fully well the challenges of this rail tracks, especially the route we took for the walk, which is typically the smell from the waste processing plant, I feel that the smell in itself is minimal to stop the use, and even if, we can always turn around and move away.
© Tizian Wojan
© Tizian Wojan
© Paulina Gilsbach
© Tizian Wojan
© Paulina Gilsbach
© Paulina Gilsbach
© Tizian Wojan
© Paulina Gilsbach
© Tizian Wojan
© Paulina Gilsbach
© Paulina Gilsbach
© Paulina Gilsbach
Conclusion: Reimagining Paljassaare’s Tracks
Paljassaare’s rail tracks hold immense potential to bridge its past and future. By intertwining adaptive reuse with placemaking, we can create a vibrant, sustainable, and connected space that celebrates its heritage while meeting the needs of its community. Despite challenges like the odor from the nearby waste treatment plant, Paljassaare has always has in it the ability to adapt and inspire. This project seeks to honor that essence by transforming these tracks into a shared, cherished place for all and could also be one of the uthopian dreams
Paljassaare is even known for.
References
Zhang, Chun, Shujian Dai, and Haishan Xia. "Reuse of abandoned railways leads to urban regeneration:
A tale from a rust track to a Green Corridor in Zhangjiakou." Urban Rail Transit 6 (2020): 104-115.
Case Studies for Adaptive Reuse in Urban Design, https://urbandesignlab.in/case-studies-for-adaptive-reuse-in-urban-design/ [Accessed on 15th November 2024]
How old railway lines are being repurposed into public spaces; https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/city-and-architecture/a5018-how-old-railway-lines-are-being-repurposed-into-public-spaces/ [Accessed on 10th November 2024]
Adaptive Reuse Projects Prioritise Flexibility for the Future; https://www.cuubstudio.com/blog/adaptive-reuse-projects-prioritise-flexibility-for-the-future/ [Accessed on 15th November 2024]
The Rise of Adaptive Reuse in Urban Architecture; https://gamehubbeat.com/the-rise-of-adaptive-reuse-in-urban-architecture/ [Accessed on 25th November 2024]
Adaptive Reuse x Placemaking Ayuntamiento Pelayos de la Presa Madrid Architecture Week in partnership with in support of Architecture competition + Course https://neverenougharchitecture.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/BRIEFING_ARxPM_EN.pdf [Accessed on 25th November 2024]
PALJASSAARE_Kaleidoscope, Speculating new conservation (aesthetics) by Katharina Hoffmann; https://paljassaarekaleidoscope.cargo.site/Katharina-Hoffmann [Accessed on 25th November 2024]
PALJASSAARE_Kaleidoscope, Future within bounds_Maria Kazlovskyaya; https://paljassaarekaleidoscope.cargo.site/Maria-Kazlovskyaya [Accessed on 25th November 2024]
PALJASSAARE_Kaleidoscope, For whom_Piret Saar; https://paljassaarekaleidoscope.cargo.site/Piret-Saar [Accessed on 25th November 2024]
In Praise of Materials & Things by by Khadeeja Farrukh; https://paljassaaretimecapsules.cargo.site/In-Praise-of-Materials-and-Things [Accessed on 25th November 2024]
Sarah Gerdiken, Beyond Borders: Moving through Maardu; Walking along a life vein –EKA STUDIO I URBANISATION 2019, 45-49
Zhang, Chun, Shujian Dai, and Haishan Xia. "Reuse of abandoned railways leads to urban regeneration:
A tale from a rust track to a Green Corridor in Zhangjiakou." Urban Rail Transit 6 (2020): 104-115.
Case Studies for Adaptive Reuse in Urban Design, https://urbandesignlab.in/case-studies-for-adaptive-reuse-in-urban-design/ [Accessed on 15th November 2024]
How old railway lines are being repurposed into public spaces; https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/city-and-architecture/a5018-how-old-railway-lines-are-being-repurposed-into-public-spaces/ [Accessed on 10th November 2024]
Adaptive Reuse Projects Prioritise Flexibility for the Future; https://www.cuubstudio.com/blog/adaptive-reuse-projects-prioritise-flexibility-for-the-future/ [Accessed on 15th November 2024]
The Rise of Adaptive Reuse in Urban Architecture; https://gamehubbeat.com/the-rise-of-adaptive-reuse-in-urban-architecture/ [Accessed on 25th November 2024]
Adaptive Reuse x Placemaking Ayuntamiento Pelayos de la Presa Madrid Architecture Week in partnership with in support of Architecture competition + Course https://neverenougharchitecture.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/BRIEFING_ARxPM_EN.pdf [Accessed on 25th November 2024]
PALJASSAARE_Kaleidoscope, Speculating new conservation (aesthetics) by Katharina Hoffmann; https://paljassaarekaleidoscope.cargo.site/Katharina-Hoffmann [Accessed on 25th November 2024]
PALJASSAARE_Kaleidoscope, Future within bounds_Maria Kazlovskyaya; https://paljassaarekaleidoscope.cargo.site/Maria-Kazlovskyaya [Accessed on 25th November 2024]
PALJASSAARE_Kaleidoscope, For whom_Piret Saar; https://paljassaarekaleidoscope.cargo.site/Piret-Saar [Accessed on 25th November 2024]
In Praise of Materials & Things by by Khadeeja Farrukh; https://paljassaaretimecapsules.cargo.site/In-Praise-of-Materials-and-Things [Accessed on 25th November 2024]
Sarah Gerdiken, Beyond Borders: Moving through Maardu; Walking along a life vein –EKA STUDIO I URBANISATION 2019, 45-49