University of Tartu: Physicum building

The Physicum, the building of the University of Tartu Institute of Physics, opened in the Maarjamõisa science campus in 2014. It brought together staff and students who had previously been spread across different locations, providing them with a modern learning and research environment. This marked a major step forward in the development of the university’s science and technology campus.

The architectural design of Physicum was created by Kadarik Tüür Architects and Stuudio Tallinn. Thanks to its bold form and distinctive exterior finish, the building stands out against Maarjamõisa’s green surroundings, while its rust-toned facade forms a visual dialogue with the reddish brick exterior of the neighbouring Tartu Applied Health Sciences University. Physicum is not just a building of laboratories, classrooms, auditoriums, and offices – it is a complex research infrastructure. Large glass surfaces, internal sightlines, and spacious common areas help connect the scientists’ daily, behind-the-scenes work with the university’s more public spaces.

Following its completion, the building was recognised at the Tartu Building of the Year awards. Physicum is a prime example of how a science facility can be precise, technical, and dignified all at once, while contributing to a high-quality public urban space.