The renovation of the Riga Circus

Between May 2021 and 2022, contractor PS “AIDACO GROUP” carried out energy efficiency improvement works. A new dome structure of self-supporting CLT panels was built outside the historic metal dome structure, together with a system of load-bearing supports and foundations; a new roof covering was laid and the external rainwater system renewed; new engineering utilities were installed; and the facade was insulated and the courtyard rebuilt. The interior combines the industrial restraint characteristic of the NRJA architects with the warmth of the historic heritage, while the silhouette of the facade was brought closer to the building’s original historic appearance. As a result of the reconstruction, the circus arena can now be transformed and adapted to the needs of contemporary circus.

The total first-stage investment in the circus reconstruction attracted by the Ministry of Culture reaches approximately EUR 5.5 million, part of which is covered under the operational programme “Growth and Employment”, specific support objective “Promote energy efficiency improvements in state and residential buildings”, project No. 4.2.1.2/18/I/062 “Implementation of energy efficiency measures for the building at Merķeļa iela 4, Riga”. Eligible costs of the EU co-financed project are set at EUR 2,980,880, of which the planned European Regional Development Fund support is EUR 2,533,748, or 85% of eligible costs, and the state budget co-financing is EUR 447,132, or 15%.

The SIA Global Consulting team prepared the EU-supported project and managed its successful implementation.