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VEF

Mixed-Use Quarter

Latvia

Riga, Latvia

2016 - 2023

Alvis Rozenbergs

Mixed-Use Quarter

VEF Kvartals

WC

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The territory of the former State Electrotechnical Factory or VEF is undergoing change. The so-called VEF Kvartāls or VEF Quarter area is slowly being reborn into a modern space for cultural initiatives and business. A key part of the development is a historical red brick building which is living its new life as an office block with character. A custom-made metal platform lines the front of the building providing convenient access to all businesses. We made sure every square metre is used efficiently. In this project, practicality meets design, creating a user-friendly environment that complements the vibrant atmosphere of ‘VEF Kvartāls’

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At ‘VEF Kvartāls’, we’re taking a novel approach to public restrooms, elevating them from hidden necessities to prominent features of the space. Our design ensures resource efficiency by repurposing shipping containers into sleek, efficient restrooms, harmoniously blending with the existing staircase and adding a modern touch to the area. The design demands attention and disrupts the ordinary. Alongside this, we’ve integrated a relaxation zone and accessible drinking water stations, catering to the site’s seasonal peak during warmer months. Outdoor sinks are strategically placed to streamline crowd flow during events. The facade features bright light fixtures ensuring bold visual appearance and enhancing navigation also during the darker hours of the day.

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True character, both in design and in life, lies in honoring what’s already there—working with existing materials and respecting the contributions of those who came before. This is the highest form of design practice: to preserve and embrace the existing form, enhancing it with our unique touches, rather than reshaping it beyond recognition. This philosophy guided us while transforming the VEF quarter from former industrial facilities into an inviting creative space. The revitalization of these spaces must be thoughtfully connected to their functions and tenants, not just the design—a challenge that has been our primary focus from the very start.

BAC DE RODA

Office Building

Spain

Barcelona, Spain

2020 - ongoing

Office Building

R. Evolution

Olga Ponomarjova

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Designing for the future while respecting the past. Bac de Roda illustrates the value of applying creativity to workplace architecture and the ability of architecture to affect more than a building’s users.

The innovative office building in Barcelona has the potential to become a new focal point for the neighbourhood and enhance local wellbeing. Infused with references to Catalan culture, the Bac de Roda also exemplifies contextual architecture.

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The themes of the Sardana dance, castellers (human tower builders) and Salto del Sallent waterfall are visible throughout, in both the exterior and interior, shaping a holistic whole. For example, the triangles, which represent castells, appear in the solar shading panels on the facade, as well as in the acoustic panels and furniture indoors. The Sardana inspired the outdoor meeting pods and the lobby area’s wooden feature. In its turn, the artificial waterfall flows down the front of the facade and into the lobby where it contributes to the welcoming, invigorating atmosphere.

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Considering the climate in Barcelona and the basic human need for a connection to nature, our design encourages the building’s users to shift some of their activities outdoors. We questioned why meetings, phone calls and moments of deep work need always take place indoors. Our solution comes in the shape of a well-equipped, functional terrace, which continues the activity-based layout of the interior spaces.

The Bac de Roda office building in Barcelona is a technologically advanced project in which we got to exercise both our creativity and technical skills to pull off features like the man-made forest and waterfall.

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TRENTINI

Showroom

Latvia

Riga, Latvia

2020

Ansis Starks

Showroom

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As a company, Trentini doesn’t offer ready-made concepts. The team involves the client in creating bespoke solutions. It was therefore important to design the new showroom as a space to let the mind roam free, inspire experiments, innovation and collaboration.

The Trentini showroom’s new home is a renovated 19th century building in central Riga. We chose to accent its history by painting the facade and authentic interior features white. The front of the showroom is designed to be adaptable and accommodate events such as product presentations, seminars and changing installations.

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Deeper within we used tinted MDF to build display rooms for housing product and design samples. To maximise on the available space, two of these rooms hover above the atrium. MDF is an efficient ready-to-use material which allows saving resources.

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ALLORA

Restaurant

Latvia

Riga, Latvia

2024

Alvis Rozenbergs

Restaurant

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At OAD, we believe being an artisan isn’t tied to a single craft—it’s a mindset. It’s about being fully present in the process of creation, making thoughtful decisions, and celebrating the beauty of uniqueness and quality. True craftsmanship lives in the details. Allora is a space where carefully crafted cuisine meets a curated interior that speaks the same language.

Inspired by the harmony between northern minimalism and southern vibrancy, we transformed this space into an experience—one that feels both familiar and exciting. The interior reflects the essence of the restaurant: warm, expressive, and grounded in intention.

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A standout feature is the set of custom wool umbrellas, designed in collaboration with Peek Behind the Curtains. These sculptural elements do more than define space—they enhance acoustics, create soft lighting atmospheres, and establish intimate gathering zones.

Placed strategically in the restaurant’s open-plan layout, they temper the lively energy, making sure conversation flows without overwhelming.

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When designing a restaurant, adaptability isn’t optional—it’s essential. Whether it’s a lively group of twelve or a quiet dinner for two, the space should embrace every occasion. This central table was crafted with that in mind—visually bold, effortlessly functional, and ready to transform with the moment.

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Every element in Allora was designed with purpose—to support comfort, connection, and the shared joy of coming together over good food.

EL3

Apartment

Latvia

Riga, Latvia

2021

Alvis Rozenbergs

Apartment

Yossi, Jossi

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Located in a grand Art Nouveau building, the apartment spans across its top two floors, including an adapted attic. Our task was its complete transformation from floor plan to furniture and fixtures. Inspired by the location, history of the building and the client’s lifestyle, we created an apartment that combines the old and new. It is an apartment of playful yet elegant contrasts.

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Historically, the front-facing interiors would have been more lavish, while the back of the building was reserved for low-key staff quarters. This is one contrast we preserved. We also ensured a change in feeling and aesthetics between both floors. A dramatic, statement staircase seems to levitate and guides residents between the two levels both physically and psychologically. Any new volumes such as the silver bathroom unit are designed to stand out against the historical setting.

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Our choice of robust natural materials and the colour palette are an interpretation of masculinity. The backdrop with features such as bespoke wood panelling and marble surfaces creates a strong setting for the handpicked designer furniture. Yet we haven’t forgotten about fun and features to facilitate balancing work and play. Lighting helps conjure different sensations and atmospheres. The sauna area is a space to relax and let loose in the comfort of one’s own home. And the quirky tower becomes a grown-up treehouse or man cave.

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THE CATCH

Restaurant

Germany

Berlin, Germany

2019

Alvis Rozenbergs

Restaurant

The Catch Family

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The concept for The Catch Berlin is based on the contrast of hand crafted wooden details, made in the ancient Japanese technique –shou sugi ban – merged together with colourful glass and epoxy design pieces, inspired by Japanese traditions and today’s exaggerated Tokyo sea of neon.

Each wooden plank is different and crafted by experienced masters practicing wabi-sabi (a world view centered on the acceptance of transience and imperfection). Characteristics of the wabi-sabi aesthetic include asymmetry, roughness, simplicity, austerity, modesty, intimacy and an appreciation of the ingenuous integrity of natural objects and processes.

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The Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi includes kintsugi, also known as kintsukuroi (golden repair) – the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery – treating breakage and repair as part of the history of an object.

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The boat-shaped light is an example of combining different centuries in one piece. We took inspiration from the wasen – a traditional Japanese boat. Wa means “traditional Japanese thing”, while sen is one of the suffixes meaning boat or ship. The size and silhouette of the feature light reflect the exact prototype of a traditional Japanese fishing boat.

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Of course, one can’t forget modern-day Japan in the form of manga-style bright colours and sexuality.

EYWA

Apartment Building

UAE

Dubai, UAE

2022 - ongoing

Apartment Building

R.evolution

RVL

Olga Ponomarjova, Maria Gembitskaya, Sergejs Zarovnijs, BINYAN

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EYWA, situated in the Business Bay area of Dubai, is more than just a residential building. It’s a reflection of a dialogue between the city’s dynamic pace and the serene whispers of nature. Inspired by the sprawling beauty of the Banyan Tree, the architecture seamlessly merges Dubai’s urban appeal with organic elements.

EYWA redefines luxury by offering “wild luxury”, a nature-inspired experience that transcends traditional material opulence and connects with human emotions and senses. The project represents a unique approach to design, emphasizing mutual exchange of ideas, experiences, and global variety. With this project we are dedicated to finding common ground that infuses the city with a more compassionate approach to architecture. This embodies OAD’s commitment to diverse and people-centered architecture that seeks to find a shared language across different cultures and create spaces that have a positive impact on one’s well-being. In a busy city like Dubai, architecture does not always strive to create harmonious synergy between nature and urbanity. EYWA is evidence of this unity, as well as OAD’s commitment to translate our values into a design language that resonates with the local culture.

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Each living space in Eywa, from the efficient 2-bedroom units to the expansive 5-bedroom options, is thoughtfully designed with a unified theme. This approach skillfully merges the interior with nature-inspired external elements, all realized with meticulous attention to detail. The concepts of ‘wild luxury,’ ‘sophistication,’ and ‘elegance’ are fundamental to Eywa’s design philosophy. The interiors boast visual abundance, highlighted by natural structures, wild textures, luxurious fabrics, precious crystals, and metals, creating a cohesive aesthetic throughout.

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The interiors are characterized by contrasts that accentuate the value of each material. These contrasts are not only tactile, involving varied textures, but also visual, with the quality of light transforming surfaces and spaces from day to night. Natural materials are key, including wood with visible knots and grains, raw-edged or rough-cut stone slabs, complex fabric textures, layered rugs, and bright brass metals. This juxtaposition of finishes creates a dynamic harmony and interest within the spaces. Throughout the project, ‘Aha!’ moments arise from unexpected, exciting accents and details, adding layers of discovery and delight.

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The public spaces in EYWA are designed to be continuous and immersive, providing a seamless floating experience from the moment one enters the building. Upon arrival, the journey starts under a captivating waterfall and tree like branches and canopies over one’s head, setting the stage for what lies ahead. The lobby, as a continuation of this narrative, features elements designed to shift mindsets and perspectives. Notable are the elevated nest-like installations, which not only add an artistic touch but also allow for varied viewpoints, enriching the sensory experience, ensuring continuous transition from the outdoor environment to the interior spaces. Additionally, these nest-like installations are libraries that offer residents opportunity to deepen their knowledge on various topic, including the ones foundational to the whole EYWA building and envisioned lifestyle.

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TWINO

Office

Latvia

Riga, Latvia

2021

Klavs Loris

Office

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Fintech company TWINO allows its staff to work from anywhere. At the same time they believe an office plays a vital role in maintaining a social work culture. A shared space encourages loyalty, fosters interaction and sparks creative ideas. In light of the company’s requirements, we designed an activity-based workplace, which embodies the company culture and brand values. The logo comes to life through bespoke furnishing solutions, which combine form and function.

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Seen from the street, a neon light feature attracts attention and announces the company name to passers-by. The sign has become more than just an expressive interior element - it boldly reflects into the urban landscape. It stands as a statement: interiors can shape exteriors. A new centre of gravity in the city is born.

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At the office employees have access to hot desks, lockers, meeting spaces, a kitchen and lounge. The office is easy to transform to host meetups, community gettogethers and foosball tournaments. Custom-designed elements like the stylised tool rack maintain the all important balance between work and play. The rack contains tools and resources to encourage creativity, ideation and collaboration. It also nods to Twino’s partner company Vilia, which works in the construction and real estate sector. The two share an office.While informed by the latest developments in office design, TWINO’s Riga base is completely personalised. The design is the result of thorough research.

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ULMO

Private Residence

Ulmale, Latvia

Latvia

2021 - Ongoing

Private Residence

Olga Ponomarjova

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The design blueprint for this project was established earlier. Composition of three volumes - a two-part structure that blends traditional barnhouse aesthetics with contemporary features and creates a living space, and the third volume – a shed. All of them anchored in the pre-existing foundations.

Identification of the most suitable finishing material raised a discussion. Our objective was to uphold the robust architectural form while crafting a home tailored to the inhabitants' needs. Here that meant choosing a material that asks for as minimal maintenance as possible.

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After careful deliberation, we settled on Corten steel. Beyond its striking appearance, Corten offers a plethora of benefits, particularly its durability and minimal maintenance needs. This material is also uniquely suited to endure the harsh weather conditions of the project’s location - the Baltic Sea coast. Its weathered finish not only evolves over time but also provides a protective layer, eliminating the need for paint or additional coatings, making it both a practical and aesthetically fitting choice for this project.

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