Festival LAMPA: Cities for people: building tomorrow on the foundation of heritage

As part of the Liveability Talks series the Danish Cultural Institute invites to a discussion ”Cities for people: building tomorrow on the foundation of heritage” that will focus on revitalising abandoned buildings in a way that respects the cultural heritage.
The discussion will take place at the Lampa festival in Cēsis on 20 June at 18:30–20:00 EEST and will also be streamed online.
How can we transform old buildings into vibrant, inclusive spaces that truly serve people? How can we rethink materials, design, and planning to create cities that are both sustainable and socially inclusive? And what role do municipalities, NGOs, the private sector and their collaboration play in this process? Those are some of the questions that will be discussed.
Across the Nordic and Baltic regions, cities are finding creative ways to breathe new life into abandoned buildings, turning them into cultural hubs and community spaces. Such projects preserve architectural heritage while significantly reducing construction waste, which globally accounts for almost 40% of all waste. But equally important is the social and economic sustainability of revitalised buildings – so that these places can live, grow and eventually generate income.
Our panelists will share insights from Denmark and the Baltic States on revitalising neglected urban spaces, making them more accessible, functional, and connected to the needs of local communities. Through real-life case studies and innovative approaches, this conversation will highlight the role of architecture in shaping cities that respect the past while embracing the future.
Speakers:
Reinis Liepins (LV), Architect/ Hanzas Perons / Riga Castle Convent / Valmiera Kurtuve / Daile Theatre New Hall
Laura Kairiene (LT), Chief Architect, City of Vilnius
Oliver Vanges (DK), Development Specialist, The Danish Foundation for Culture and Sports Facilities
Zane Rugena (LV), Executive Director of Creative Factory Veldze
Moderator: Kaspars Vanags, Art curator, Director of Pauls Stradiņš Medicine History
It is possible to follow the discussion online, no registration is needed: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81696105208.
This discussion is part of a wider series of events called the Liveability Talks. These talks feature city leaders, activists and researchers who address urgent urban issues and share innovative solutions. The Liveability project is co-funded by the EU Interreg Baltic Sea Region (BSR) programme 2021-2027.
The discussion will be held in English, translation into Latvian will be provided.
