Platinum Winner of the International Architecture & Design Awards 2025

Improvement of Hrodna’s Riverside

Landscape

Coastal & Waterfront Landscape Design

Concept / Professional Category

Architect / Designer:

Viktar Varabei

Copyright:

Viktar Varabei

Country:

Belarus

Architectural Concept for the Redevelopment of the Hrodna Riverfront

The primary idea behind the concept is to create an open, fundamentally new space within the boundaries of the old city.

One of the key points of the riverfront is the area where the flows of tourists and local residents intersect. It is located between the Old Castle and the Kalozha Church, where the Haradnichanka River flows into the Neman River. Currently, this place lacks any infrastructure and is a wild shoreline along both the road and pedestrian pathways.

The central element of the concept is a pedestrian bridge that connects the banks and divides the space into two tiers: quiet and active zones. The bridge will create a multi-level, intricately interwoven space with viewing platforms offering the most scenic panoramas of the historic city center.

A more inviting alternative to the elevated bridge is the terraced steps along the riverbank, where visitors can relax and take in the views of the river and the city. Access to the water will be facilitated by both stairs and ramps, ensuring it is accessible to everyone, including those with limited mobility.