UNStudio Unveils RIVUS: River-Oriented Master Plan for Cluj-Napoca Industrial Site
Construction is now underway for RIVUS, a 14-hectare mixed-use area in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. This project is a collaboration between UNStudio and Felixx Landscape Architects, created for developers IULIUS and Atterbury Europe. The goal is to transform the old Carbochim industrial site by the Someș River into a lively area filled with public spaces and improved mobility options. The design incorporates community feedback, retaining some industrial buildings while adding new public facilities and greenery. Key components will include two pedestrian bridges, better streets, bike lanes, and roundabouts. With over 400 retail shops, 30 restaurants, coworking spaces, and a riverfront park, RIVUS aims to reconnect the city to its waterfront. The urban plan was approved in 2025, and the building permit followed in March 2026.
Key facts
- Construction started on RIVUS, a 14-hectare mixed-use district in Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- Designed by UNStudio with Felixx Landscape Architects and Planners for developers IULIUS and Atterbury Europe.
- Transforms the former Carbochim industrial platform along the Someș River.
- Includes two new pedestrian bridges, upgraded streets, bicycle lanes, and roundabouts.
- Former administrative building becomes coworking and entrepreneurial spaces; arcade hall becomes a cultural venue.
- Over 400 retail units, 30+ restaurants and cafés, coworking spaces, and a riverfront park.
- Green roofs and planted facades for rainwater management.
- Zonal urban plan approved in 2025; building permit received in March 2026.
Entities
Artists
- Ben van Berkel
Institutions
- UNStudio
- Felixx Landscape Architects and Planners
- IULIUS
- Atterbury Europe
- Carbochim
- Stefano Boeri Architetti
- Coldefy
- Settanta7
- Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi
Locations
- Cluj-Napoca
- Romania
- Someș River
- Rome
- Italy
- Budapest
- Hungary
- Rákosrendező
- Rogoredo
- Milan