2025 Review: Key Milestones and Events at “Grīziņdārzs”
2025 marked a significant stage of development for the creative city “Grīziņdārzs”. Substantial funding, major infrastructure improvements, the attraction of globally operating companies, and the hosting of internationally recognized art festivals have created a solid foundation for future growth, strengthening the role of “Grīziņdārzs” within Riga’s creative and business environment.
Major Achievements of the Year
The year began with significant support from Swedbank – funding of €2.5 million, which became the foundation for the implementation of several important projects in “Grīziņdārzs”:
- Completion of the K1(D) building renovation: following the conclusion of renovation works, the building is ready to welcome its new and sole tenant, Evolution Latvia, which will commence operations in “Grīziņdārzs” at the beginning of 2026.
- K1(A) and K1(D) stairwell renovation: as part of the improvement works, the stairwells were given a new lease on life – with modern finishes and improved air circulation, creating a more functional and visually appealing environment.
- K1(A) building facade renovation: this year, the facade renovation of another building commenced, proceeding according to the planned schedule. The works include modern materials and design enhancements to improve both the building’s appearance and energy efficiency, with completion scheduled for March 2026.
- K2 building renovation: work continues on both the exterior and interior modernization, with completion planned for summer 2026. Once finished, the building will offer spaces for both office and commercial use.
- P3 parking lot upgrade: paving works have been completed, providing a practical and efficient infrastructure to serve both tenants and visitors.
- New access road from Zemitāna Street: connecting the K2 building with the second courtyard, the newly constructed road improves traffic flow and overall accessibility across the complex.
- Site landscaping: more than 400 new plants were installed throughout the complex, creating a green oasis in the city and a pleasant environment for both employees and visitors.
Improvements in the “Grīziņdārzs” Area
This year, the Grīziņkalns neighborhood has seen significant improvements, creating a favorable environment for both the development of “Grīziņdārzs” and the daily convenience of local residents. The City of Riga has made substantial investments in infrastructure modernization – a new cycling path has been constructed, improving connections to the rest of the city, the Zemitāni Station square has been renovated, enhancing public transport accessibility and a green zone adjacent to the “Grīziņdārzs” site is being developed.
These upgrades not only raise the quality of life in the neighborhood but also strengthen “Grīziņdārzs” position as an attractive location for business. A greener, more orderly, and better-connected area adds value for both tenants and visitors.
Events and Activities
The year 2025 was marked by significant cultural events — for the first time, “Grīziņdārzs” hosted two internationally renowned art festivals, attracting thousands of visitors and reinforcing the complex’s role as a prominent venue for cultural events.
Riga Art Week (RAW)
In May, a new art festival — Riga Art Week (RAW) — took place in Riga for the first time, offering the public an opportunity to explore the diversity of contemporary art. “Grīziņdārzs” became one of the festival’s main supporters and hosted its official opening event on May 30, featuring artists from the Baltic states and a wide audience. The festival’s choice of “Grīziņdārzs” as the opening venue highlighted the complex’s growing significance in Riga’s cultural life and reinforced its position as a creative neighborhood attracting major cultural events.
“Survival Kit 16” Festival
In the autumn, the contemporary art festival “Survival Kit 16” took place at “Grīziņdārzs”, featuring the exhibition House of See-More. The event brought together artists from around the world and attracted approximately 10,000 visitors. The festival was particularly notable as, for the first time in its history, modernized industrial buildings were selected as the event’s venue.
Plans for 2026
Looking ahead, the creative city “Grīziņdārzs” will continue to strengthen its presence in the Grīziņkalns neighborhood. A rooftop sign displaying the name of the creative city will soon be installed on the K1(A) building, while tenant logos will be highlighted at the main entrance, increasing the visibility of “Grīziņdārzs” in the urban environment. The development of the complex’s green spaces will also continue, including both outdoor landscaping and indoor greenery, creating a pleasant, nature-immersed atmosphere. Overall, improvements across all elements of the complex will continue to ensure a high-quality and functional environment.
The year 2025 represented an important step in the development of “Grīziņdārzs”, and we are grateful to all partners and supporters who made it possible. We will continue to shape “Grīziņdārzs” into a place that inspires and adds value for both tenants and the wider Grīziņkalns community.
