Architectural Cases

A transformative vision is unfolding along the Someș River in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, where a former industrial area is being reborn as a dynamic, mixed-use district. The RIVUS project, spearheaded by UNStudio and Felixx Landscape Architects and Planners, seeks to seamlessly integrate urban revitalization, the reimagining of existing structures, innovative landscape architecture, and modern public amenities. This extensive initiative, spanning over 14 hectares, is designed to reconnect the city with its long-neglected waterfront, transforming what was once an industrial hub into a thriving public realm.

Central to this development is the thoughtful preservation and adaptation of the site's industrial legacy, particularly two key buildings from the historic Carbochim factory. These structures, dating back to 1949 and once at the heart of Romania's abrasive production, are being repurposed to serve new cultural and entrepreneurial functions. The former administrative building is set to become a hub for coworking and innovation, while the impressive arcade hall will be transformed into a vibrant cultural venue, anchoring the district's public life along the river. The project's architectural language, characterized by flowing lines and circular motifs, deliberately echoes the natural movement of water, emphasizing the Someș River as the core inspiration for the development.

The comprehensive plan for RIVUS encompasses a wide array of new facilities and infrastructure designed to enhance urban living. This includes over 400 retail spaces, more than 30 restaurants and cafes, additional coworking facilities, and various cultural venues, all integrated within a newly designed riverfront park. A strong emphasis is placed on sustainability, with green roofs, planted facades, and native vegetation incorporated throughout the site to manage rainwater and enhance biodiversity. Furthermore, a new network of pedestrian, cycling, and vehicular routes, including two pedestrian bridges across the Someș River and upgraded surrounding streets, will significantly improve accessibility and connectivity. With demolition and excavation already in progress following the zonal urban plan approval in 2025, and the recent issuance of the building permit in March 2026, the construction phase is now well underway, promising a new chapter for Cluj-Napoca's riverside.

The RIVUS project stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design and community engagement in urban renewal. By embracing its industrial past while envisioning a sustainable and vibrant future, Cluj-Napoca is creating a model for how cities can transform underutilized spaces into thriving, accessible, and environmentally conscious urban environments. This development not only reclaims the riverfront for its citizens but also establishes a new benchmark for integrated urban planning, highlighting the potential for architecture to foster connection, culture, and ecological balance.

In contemporary architecture, a pivotal shift towards environmental stewardship and ecological accountability is driving a renewed focus on leveraging existing structures. This evolving paradigm champions the reimagining of inherited spaces, materials, and historical contexts. This philosophy is prominently exemplified by SSdH, a Melbourne-based architecture firm founded in 2020 by Todd de Hoog, Harrison Smart, and Jean-Marie Spencer. The practice, honored with the ArchDaily 2025 Next Practices Awards, is distinguished by its holistic approach to renovation, expansion, and inventive integration within pre-existing buildings.

SSdH's methodology is characterized by a strong commitment to ecological sustainability, efficient material utilization, and a collaborative design process that is deeply rooted in the unique conditions of each project site. Their work consistently demonstrates an ability to transform existing buildings into dynamic participants in their environment. Through thoughtful interventions, they unlock the inherent value and untapped possibilities within these structures, proving that innovative design can indeed yield 'more architecture for less.' This approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also enriches the architectural landscape by honoring the past while building for the future.

By prioritizing the adaptive reuse of existing buildings, SSdH not only contributes to a more sustainable future but also showcases how architectural ingenuity can breathe new life into old forms. Their projects serve as powerful examples of how design can be both responsible and transformative, creating spaces that are both functional and deeply connected to their surroundings. The firm's success underscores the importance of a mindful approach to construction, where every existing element is viewed as an opportunity for innovation and a testament to the enduring potential of thoughtful design.