AEXN architects
DANĖ RIVERBANK, regeneration
Year: 2016
Project location: Danė Square and the riverbanks from Birža Bridge to the future Bastionų Bridge
Building function: Recreational
Architects: Tomas Grunskis, Jolanta Kitra
The Danė River in Klaipėda, a historic focal point of the city’s development, is reimagined as a vibrant public space honoring Lithuania’s centenary. The proposal revitalizes 420 m of deteriorated embankments, reconstructing paths, lighting, and small architecture while preserving mature trees. A tiered riverbank profile brings people closer to the water, while a multifunctional pavilion, renewed fountain, and an active recreation area with event square, playgrounds, and sports zones enrich community life. A proposed pedestrian “Centenary Bridge” strengthens links across the river, unifying Dangė Quay with adjacent public spaces and enhancing Klaipėda’s waterfront identity.
Comprehensive research—including historiography, SWOT, and Space Syntax analyses—revealed the riverfront’s layered identity as a former defensive harbor and fortification. Historic maps and archeological evidence informed the design, ensuring that new interventions respect the site’s heritage. The analysis identified weak functional ties to surrounding public spaces and limited social attraction on the eastern bank, emphasizing the need for stronger connections and diverse uses. Opportunities include transforming the area into a polyfunctional hub integrated into Klaipėda’s wider public space network. Strengthened pedestrian and cycling links, strategic staging of improvements, and community participation are essential for long-term vitality and sustainable development.