Year: 2023 spring semester (I year)

Typology: Public building 

Location: Tallinn, Pirita district

1944–1945, as the front line of the Second World War approached and fear of Soviet repression spread, tens of thousands of Estonians were forced to leave their homeland and flee across the stormy autumn waters of the Baltic Sea to the free world. Every seaworthy boat was used for the escape, and nearly every vessel was filled to the maximum capacity with people. During the Great Flight, thousands lost their lives at sea.

The memorial “I don't Want to leave, but I can't stay” is dedicated to those who were forced to abandon their homes under foreign occupation. It commemorates their fate and draws attention to the crimes against humanity committed by the Soviet occupation regime.

The conceptual basis for the memorial is formed by the views experienced by people who fled across the sea. The first view opens from the exhibition hall toward the sea, while the second view, upon exiting the exhibition space, frames Tallinn itself.

In addition, the design deliberately avoids using typical maritime motifs such as waves or fluid, flowing forms in the building’s shape, instead focusing on a more restrained and contemplative architectural expression.