In national parks, an important conservation objective is to preserve the architectural uniqueness and the natural landscape of the area. Therefore, the manager of the protected area sets conditions on construction activities to achieve this goal.
In its discretionary decision, the Estonian Environmental Board proceeds from the explanatory memorandum to the rules of conservation of the national park, the management plan, surveys, and, if necessary, orders an expert assessment. The Lahemaa Architecture Council will be involved as an advisory body in solving more complex construction problems in Lahemaa national park.
National parks have different cultural backgrounds, and therefore the architectural requirements are also slightly different. There are so few buildings in the Alutaguse National Park that no specific conditions exist for their appearance.
The general rule in national parks is simple and straightforward: In terms of size and architectural solution, new buildings must value the regional architecture and follow traditions. The solution must complement the existing environment while, at the same time, it can be reflective of its era. For exterior finishing, use area-specific materials, e.g. planed or non-planed boards and unmilled logs in log buildings. Avoid sheet metal and plastic materials imitating stone or wood. Use specific shades characteristic of the region when choosing the colour solution.
The location of architecturally valuable buildings in Lahemaa National Park can be viewed in the environmental portal (select architectural values in protected areas).