Competition project- 2002

Total area without subterranean space - 40 790 m²
Subterranean area - 17 190 m²
Highest altitude point- 45.25 m
Cubage - 380 900 m³

Into the tender project has been included a proposal on layout and spatial structure of Kipsala and Kliversala territory around the Agenskalna backwater. The spatial/functional idea of the projected multi-functional centre is a "building-bridge" in one of the parts of Kipsala island unifying the development of business and residential zones of the above-mentioned area into one functional and spatial structure.

Due to the building`s unique location over the water, there are two entrances, which are connected to the pedestrian street - passage, thus creating a closed outdoor space with relatively divided functional zones. The solution of the new construction connecting both riverbanks enables opening for dwelling the water covered areas for inhabitants and guests of Riga, gaining a true enjoyment from the interaction of nature`s foundations and urban environment. The analysis of the developed silhouette outlines the idea of the multifunctional business centre as an explicitly horizontal construction, marking also the idea of "City Gate".

The upper (four) office floors are designed as components of the street façade that fill the free space with a range of necessary horizontal and vertical communication elements, and also form a suspended block of café/restaurant on the dimension of glass roof with a romantic exit on the terrace and a beautiful view on the old town panorama irradiated by the evening sun. Under the floors and levels available for pedestrians and visitors of the building there is a structure of roads connecting both riverbanks, which is necessary for the supply of the building as well as for the motortraffic of this area, however leaving in the center of the building a free space (about 10m high) for the naval traffic, but at the both ends constructing on the level of existing pavements premises of shops and cafes with a view towards the river and surrounding architecture.

The glass pane of the extended end of the building`s façade puts a stress on the entrance into the building, which is even more emphasized by the newly grown tall trees.
The exterior glass onlay of the river façade is designed as unified explicitly horizontal blocks, which, being slightly uneven, reflect the pattern of the waves of the river on the façade of the building and transmits the reflection of the emotional mood from the river and silhouette of the environment in the length of 320m.

Arch: A.Kronbergs, J.Lasis, E.Beernaerts
asissted by arch: B.Bula and
Arch.tech. R.Saulītis, J.Vizulis, U.Jaunsubrēns