It’s UKU’s birthday week!

As we celebrate this milestone, we take a moment to look both back and forward on our journey. Looking back is especially meaningful to us. It’s not just the story of how UKU was built, but also the traditional building methods that shaped us. Marko’s father, who is no longer with us, passed on invaluable knowledge that continues to live through us and guide our work today.

This photo, taken around 14 years ago, shows Marko discussing what would become the renowned Kikka Villa. For us, building is more than just construction—it’s a legacy. 💛 #UKU #TraditionMeetsTomorrow #BuildingLegacy #KikkaVilla #Craftsmanship

At UKU we provide tailored natural finishing application solutions👈🏻

We offer customized solutions to ensure that, no matter the surface, our natural finishing materials can be seamlessly applied. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@uku.eu — we’re here to help!

Photos @terjeugandi

#naturalfinish #interiordesign #interiorarchitecture #architecture

Tallinn Architecture Biennale

RESOURCES FOR FUTURE

At this year’s TAB @tallinnarchitecturebiennale, Saviukumaja contributed to two projects focused on sustainable building materials and techniques.
The first, Ornamental Records from Tallinn by @dechelette.architecture / @emmanuelle_dechelette_ (France), was an immersive installation featuring rammed earth columns combined with fragments of metal and wood. The columns emitted sounds representing the materials, creating a rhythmic, sensory experience. The project, blending ancestral techniques and industrial materials, highlighted the potential of bio-based materials and traditional craftsmanship in post-carbon architecture.
@marko.kikas , founder of Saviukumaja, was excited to contribute the rammed-earth mixture for the installation, as materials like clay and lime are increasingly being recognized and used by architects as legitimate, traditional, and sustainable building resources.

Additionally, KAMP architects @kamparhitektid presented their MINE+CRAFT® research, exploring how local clay, reed, and wood chips from the Haapsalu region can be transformed into building materials such as different clay mixtures, plasters and paints. The project follows the principle “The future is a return to the past,” promoting the use of locally sourced materials to reduce environmental impact. Marko Kikas also contributed to the development of these materials, supporting his mission to promote eco-friendly building practices.

Both projects reflect the theme of the 2024 Tallinn Architecture Biennale, “Resources for a Future,” encouraging the evaluation of buildings based on how much of their materials are locally sourced. The exhibition at the Tallinn Architecture Museum is open until December 1, 2024.

#TAB2024 #TallinnArchitectureBiennale #SustainableDesign #FutureOfArchitecture
#ArchitectureSymposium #TallinnArchitectureBiennale

The simple essence of Clay

Clay is a naturally abundant mineral resource made up of tiny particles that give it its malleable, sticky properties. It’s easy to mine and can be processed into building materials, cosmetics, and even healthcare products. Known for its eco-friendliness, clay helps regulate indoor humidity, purifies the air, and preserves wood. With antibacterial and mold-resistant qualities, it’s great for construction, also for health and beauty. However, when using clay, remember that it took millions of years to build up the layers—so treat it with respect. This ancient material continues to offer simple magic 🪄

Photos @terjeugandi

#Clay #Sustainability #EcoFriendly #NaturalResources #GreenBuilding #HealthAndBeauty #Antibacterial #MoldResistant #AirPurification #SustainableLiving #NaturalMaterials #Wellness #EnvironmentalConservation