The “green” project of the new Riga center will also include a “Lidl” store

The industrial block of Lāčplēša Street is becoming part of the protection zone of the historical center of Riga, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Therefore, the entire block, including the new “Lidl” store, must meet high architectural requirements, the company says.

The project of the quarter was developed by the architectural offices “Dual arhitekti” from Latvia and “Archunion” from Ukraine.

The block is located in a former industrial area and therefore retains its historical industrial heritage and style. For example, the 19th century chimney has been preserved as one of the central elements of the block, which will serve as a landmark of the square in the future. Buildings and facades will use imitation of historical bricks with a stylistically appropriate color palette.

The main thoroughfare of the block will be built with people in mind, not cars. The idea is based on the ‘Woonerf’ (residential street) concept of the 1970s in the Netherlands, centered on a lively and human-friendly urban space. Cars are allowed in yards and streets, but the main emphasis is still on pedestrians and cyclists.

The block space is designed to encourage communication among local residents, including benches, a central square with green islands, a historic chimney and a green terrace that winds upwards around it. Cafes and shops in the square will also create the feeling of the city center.