Tallinn, 07.06.2026 — A new residential development in Haabersti, Tallinn, is being shaped by future residents themselves, marking a shift in Estonia’s real estate market toward community-driven design. Developer Liven is constructing the Kadakadabra homes near Harku Forest, basing its plans on a survey of prospective buyers’ expectations, the real estate firm announced today.
The project, set to rise on the edge of the forest, prioritises diverse outdoor spaces, reflecting a broader trend among Estonians seeking slower, more intentional lifestyles. “People no longer want to cram experiences into short breaks,” said a spokesperson for Liven. “They’re looking for environments where they can truly be present.” The survey revealed strong demand for green corridors, quiet corners, and flexible communal areas that blend into the surrounding woodland.
This approach aligns with a wider movement across Estonia, where small tourism operators in rural Kagu-Eesti have retooled their services to cater to visitors craving tranquillity over packed itineraries. “Our guests used to ask for itineraries; now they ask for silence,” said one guesthouse owner in Võru County. “They want to sit by the fire, not tick boxes.”
The Haabersti development, dubbed Kadakadabra for its whimsical nod to the juniper trees (*kadakas*) dotting the area, will comprise 45 units when completed in 2027. Liven’s research showed that 78% of respondents ranked outdoor accessibility as their top priority, followed by energy efficiency and shared gardening spaces. “This isn’t just housing; it’s a lifestyle choice,” the developer noted.
Urban planners in Tallinn see the project as a test case for balancing density with well-being. “Haabersti still has green lungs,” said city councillor Kaire Palumaa. “We’re watching closely to see if this model scales.” The city has earmarked 12 hectares of nearby forest for conservation, ensuring the development remains buffered from urban sprawl.
Residents moving in next year will join a growing cohort of Estonians prioritising mental space over speed. For Liven, the experiment is already paying off: over 60% of surveyed buyers have committed to purchasing, with contracts signed before construction began. “They’re not just buying a home,” said the spokesperson. “They’re buying a slower pace of life.”