Zunda channel, Riga

Project aim: The Zunda Canal development project examines several things - the importance of the Daugava river from a historical and modern point of view, the potential for developing water transport by studying and, taking into account the existing infrastructure in the city, the role of the transport system and pedestrians in the urban space, based on the principles of sustainable development in the urban environment. The goal of the project is to create a multi-modal transit station that would meet the image of a modern city and the city's wishes to create a ZEZ [Zero emission zone] in Riga.

Work done: During the project development, we analised the historic water levels in the Daugava, which are taken into account in the development scheme. The core structure of the building is raised at least 1.2 meters high from the average water level , which ensures that the building will not be flooded even on the most critical days. The floating parts of the building and flexible connections - ramps are made in such lengths that even at the lowest water level, the requirements for a slope of 1:20 are met. As the water level rises, the floating ramps rise with it, thus reducing the slope, but still providing easy access from the stable part of the dock, all the way to the bow of the boat. 

End result: The project envisages the creation of a multi-modal transit station that connects several modes of movement. The shape of the building is made of curved shapes characterizing water, fluidity, movement and dynamics. The facades of the building are finished with vertical railing finished in copper, symbolizing the importance of shipping in the Daugava river, which once was one of the most important traffic routes in'n'out of the city, but now is now almost completely extinct. A connecting bridge, which functions as a pedestrian bridge and connects the two banks, was planned in the project as well. The designed bridge not only makes a functional improvement, but also gives the place an identity. Its constructive solutions are coordinated with the building design by finishing the bearing part (ring) of the bridge with copper finish. A rest area with benches has been created on the bridge, as well as an opening for watching boats in the central part of the bridge.