Daile Theatre Square

Dailes Theater Square, built in the 1970s, had fallen into disrepair and become a car park, losing its pedestrian function and modernist charm. The renovation aimed to restore architect Marta Staņa’s vision by studying original designs and proportions. Developed through an open competition, the project united architects, designers, arborists and engineers, creating an accessible, vibrant and green public space that reconnects the square with the theater and the city, and reviving modernist spirit and civic identity.

Before renovation, Daile Theater Square faced many issues — uneven pavement, intrusive parking, and constant noise from the nearby street, which made the space uncomfortable and inaccessible. The design strategy focused on restoring pedestrian priority and connecting the square harmoniously with the theater’s modernist architecture. A new pedestrian flow system was introduced, eliminating car access and leveling the surface for universal accessibility. To soften the harsh urban environment, greenery with seasonal flowering plants was added, making a green line along the street. Two furniture types—classic benches and circular seats—create flexible rest zones. New amenities include bike racks, waste bins, a water tap, and a public toilet. The theater signage and gallery integrate cultural identity into the space. Every material was chosen to match the building’s form, ensuring a unified and human-centered urban environment.

The refurbishment of Dailes Theater Square has reshaped the priorities of this public space, placing pedestrian comfort and accessibility at its core by creating a smooth, obstacle-free surface. The area has been significantly greened, enhancing biodiversity and introducing sustainable rainwater management through a new infiltration zone that reduces flooding risks and eases the stormwater system. Existing granite steps and glazed bricks were carefully dismantled, reused, and integrated into the new pavement, preserving material heritage. The renovated square now serves as a vibrant meeting point and stage for urban life, symbolizing the revival of Riga’s public spaces. Durable, low-maintenance materials were selected to ensure longevity, while resilient, low-care plant species support ecological balance. High-quality Vestre furniture was chosen for its sustainability and timeless design, reinforcing the square’s role as an enduring and welcoming public environment.