As Estonians from around the world descend on Toronto for KESKfEST this August, a profound architectural conversation is taking shape. In an era where urban development is often dominated by risk-averse, anonymous glass boxes, KESKUS International Estonian Centre stands out as a bold counter-narrative. This landmark project acts as a bridge, transforming the rich legacy of the past into a forward-looking catalyst for how diaspora communities will inhabit and shape the urban future.
Join the Conversation
On Friday, August 21, 2026, KESKfEST will host “Urban Belonging: Designing the Places We Call Home,” a panel discussion and catered luncheon at the KESKfEST Festival Tent (8 Madison Avenue). This 90-minute exploration dives into the tension between bureaucratic fear—which often defaults to “safe,” bland design—and the expressive, identity-driven legacy of architects like Uno Prii and the visionaries behind KESKUS. The panel brings together leading voices from Canada and Estonia to discuss how we create a sense of identity and belonging in the built forms of our urban centres.
The panel features Alar Kongats (Estonian-Canadian), the four-time Governor General Award-winning architect behind KESKUS, whose work navigates the intricate relationship between diaspora roots and modern form. Joining him is Tõnis Arjus, Estonia’s first State Architect, who has championed bold urban design in the City of Tartu. The conversation will be moderated by Elsa Lam, editor-in-chief of Canadian Architect magazine.
At its heart, KESKUS is a “gift” to Toronto’s public realm. While it serves as a north star for global Estonians, its local power also lies in its role as a pedestrian connection. By creating a new walking path from the Spadina subway to St. George subway, the project breaks through the constraints of typical for-profit development. Join the discussion around KESKUS and what it will mean for future generations and for North America’s 4th largest city. Thoughtful architecture can foster genuine urban connection and a shared sense of belonging for a diaspora community. It can do so being sensitive to conditions for the local neighbourhood while adding to the conversations of the country and, indeed, the continent.
Event Details
Event: Urban Belonging: Designing the Places We Call Home (Luncheon & Panel)
When: Friday, August 21, 2026 | 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Where: KESKfEST Tent, 8 Madison Avenue, Toronto
KESKUS International Estonian Centre
Tickets can be purchased here.
