Renovation of the Bergs Bazaar started in 1993 as soon as Bergs' family property was returned to its rightful heirs. Archive documents revealed uniqueness and boldness of the original project of the first retail arcade in Riga. The block is built on a former sand road network and cabbage fields.
Over the years the ensemble had endured severe damage through several reconstructions and neglect. Aim of the reconstruction concept – to renovate the unique arcade according to the original vision of the founder Kristaps Bergs and the original project of architect Konstantīns Pēkšēns from the end of the 19th century, by making it a modern commercial, retail and residential centre. The design concept – careful dialogue between existing historical material and contemporary understanding of forms.
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The project proposed and within 15 years of gradual renovation implemented the following:
- courtyards have been renovated into pedestrian arcades, shops, restaurants, art galleries and other public utilities which are located within the original retail spaces on the ground floor;
- original arcades and windows which have been destroyed over the years are restored, the pedestrian galleries are renovated thus making the Bazaar structurally clear and transparent;
- office spaces and comfortable apartments with roof terraces and balconies are located on the upper floors of the Bazaar;
- a hotel has been built in the middle of the Bazaar; cinema, two wooden houses and a garage have been renovated;
- pedestrian zone has been developed using high quality pavement for courtyards and passages, trees, shrubs and flowers have been planted, benches, lighting fixtures and art objects - introduced.
For small architectural forms a metal grid motif has been designed and used throughout the Bazaar as a universal element – for flower and tree boxes, fencing, waste bins, bench bases. Three main entrances to the Bazaar are marked with brass label “The Bergs Bazaar” and complemented with pairs of the Bergs Bazaar flags.
There are two fountains in the courtyards of the Bazaar: the first - “Birth of Venus”, a bronze replica of a sculpture by unknown artist of the 19th century found in territory of a degraded factory in Pārdaugava. The granite basin was designed anew. The second fountain is designed by artist Ilmārs Blumbergs and it was opened in the courtyard of the Hotel Bergs in 2005.
Recently the Bazaar has become more and more populated – there are farmers' markets on Saturdays, art festivals, concerts and other events.
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Map
Renovation and development of the ensemble
Riga, block among Elizabetes, Marijas and Dzirnavu streets
Architects: Zaiga Gaile, Iveta Cibule, Liene Griezīte
Participated: Ingmārs Atavs, Ģirts Kalinkevičs,
Andra Šmite, Indra Ķempe
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Client: Justs Karlsons
Administration: ”ĒKA-CENTRS” Ltd.
Project: started in 1993, still in progress
Construction: started in 1993, still in progress
Construction company: „PKE” Ltd.
Total space of the site: 11 823 sq.m.
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