Flood-stricken Pärnu put new buildings to the test: Vanasadam district's underground floor "pool technology" kept excess water at bay

Last weekend, Pärnu was hit by an extraordinarily heavy rainfall and flooding that occurred in many places, putting riverside areas to the test. Due to the extreme downpour, the city's stormwater systems were unable to cope with the volume of water, causing several downtown streets to become impassable and water to seep into the basements of many buildings. At the same time, the Vanasadama quarter, located directly on the banks of the Pärnu River, passed nature's test flawlessly – water did not reach the underground parking garage.

"This is an excellent practical example that a stunning riverside location doesn't have to mean compromising on everyday sense of security," said Sven Mihailov, member of the board of Vanasadama Development. "While a casual observer might get the impression that the quarter's parking garage is located below the river's water level, in reality the parking floor level is situated slightly above sea level zero. The quarter's underground level has been designed and built to be waterproof, functioning on what you might call a pool principle – with the difference that water is kept firmly out, not in.

Last week's storm and flooding confirmed that this solution worked in practice as well." When it comes to real estate located directly on the water's edge, discussions usually focus on views and lifestyle, but the events of September 4th reminded us how important the things that escape notice at first glance can be. "The real value of a modern building lies precisely in these clever and safe solutions, whose vital importance only becomes apparent when natural forces put them to the test," added Mihailov.

The main advantages of the Vanasadama quarter are a well-thought-out whole – a riverside location in the city center, quality new construction, and secure underground parking. Kalda 4, which forms the first phase of the quarter, is a five-story residential and commercial building with over 60 apartments, a guest apartment, and commercial space.