5 key facts about this project
SMART ISLAND is located on an island in Riga, Latvia. It is designed to act as a cultural hub, focusing on community engagement and interaction. The overall concept emphasizes the creation of a public space where people can gather, share experiences, and enjoy various activities. By incorporating different functions like auditoriums, exhibition areas, and office spaces, the design encourages a blend of performance and everyday life.
Architectural and Functional Concept
The project, known as "Keep Island," is an urban cultural hub located on an island in Riga, Latvia. Its design is predicated on fostering social interaction and a blend of performance with everyday activities, achieved through a series of highly adaptable public spaces. The facility houses four auditoriums, which can be configured individually or merged to accommodate larger-scale events and gatherings. A central lobby functions as a multi-purpose zone for meetings and social events, supporting the project’s goal of creating a dynamic public realm.
Structural and Environmental Response
The building's architectural character is defined by a series of prominent arches that serve as both a visual signature and a key functional element. Integrated within these structures is a weather-responsive, smart fabric canopy that deploys automatically in response to rain or snow. This feature ensures the continuous usability of both the auditorium and the adjacent parking areas regardless of weather conditions, establishing a direct and functional dialogue between the structure and its environment.
Construction and Infrastructure
The construction utilizes prefabricated methods to enhance efficiency and accelerate on-site assembly. This approach reduces labor costs and minimizes the project's timeline, aligning with contemporary building practices. The parking infrastructure is designed on multiple levels to accommodate 790 vehicles, providing a functional and accessible solution that manages the traffic demands of a major public venue.