Revitalization of Spikeri Square and Daugava Waterfront Promenade

Completed: 2013 Project area: 57 582 m2 (Spikeri Square, pedestrian underpass, 1600m long promenade) Spikeri Quarter is a historical warehouse area, built in late 19th century to store cargo from ships and train freights. 13 of the former 58 warehouses have been preserved and are now hosting creative industries, restaurants and offices, as well as the Riga Ghetto museum. Unfortunately, the territory had been degraded over time both aesthetically and functionally, therefore unable to fulfill the requirements of accessibility and to attract people with a quality public space. Revitalization of the area considers the geographical closeness to the Old city, organically improving the urban infrastructure in this area. It extends the existing promenade in front of the Old city. Infrastructure is improved by new bicycle lane (city centre to its outskirts), pedestrian street connecting square and the Central market, new pathways and quays. New ramps and stairs lead from the Spikeri area towards the reconstructed pedestrian underpass, connecting the Daugava waterfront promenade with the city and providing access also for handicapped people. Revitalization of the waterfront includes completely new infrastructure of the embankment which has also been renovated and reinforced. Spikeri Square now is equipped with a playground, bicycle racks, an acoustic object, seating, lighting, flowerbeds and other greenery. Green slope and islands together with a retention wall along Krasta Street helps to avoid the intense traffic noise. Promenade offers a recreation area with benches, view platforms overhanging the river, sunbathing platforms, skate park, quays for fishing and water transportation. Tactile pavement, rails and ramps allows satisfying all the accessibility requirements. It invites people of all ages to use an open-air public space for a wide range of activities. Local materials and techniques have been used in the creating. Modular benches, sunbathing platforms, green walls, signage and other elements are designed exclusively for this project.