This home beautifully blends tradition with a distinct character. The gray wooden finish is accented by Japanese-inspired corners, contrasting with the roof’s subtle wave-like detailing. The facade’s design shifts at various levels, breaking the monotony and adding a touch of untamed elegance. Large window openings enhance the sense of transparency, with strategically placed vent windows maximizing the openness.

Nestled into a natural slope, the house seamlessly merges with the surrounding pine forest and coastal dunes. From the outside, it harmonizes effortlessly with its environment, while inside, it offers a modern, almost futuristic experience.

Staying true to tradition, the heart of this home—the kitchen—draws inspiration from the mantle chimney design. Though this ancient chimney system has become less common over time due to practicality, it remains a powerful source of inspiration. In Latvian tradition, the pavards (hearth) was located in the kitchen, with chimneys often as large as the room to gather all the smoke. The room’s unique shape allows for a two-story layout, evoking a penthouse feel, while the hidden lounge extends the central living space and provides the perfect spot for stargazing.

This design not only gives the house its distinct shape but also bathes it in beautiful overhead light. The central area naturally becomes a gathering hub, while the rest of the home flows in a circular layout, creating a dynamic space for movement.

The walls, crafted from CLT panels that also serve as the primary structure, are left exposed without any additional finishes. This sustainable and efficient solution enhances the home’s aesthetic while cleverly concealing storage areas and providing a perfect backdrop for the family’s art collection.

The natural, light-filled interior, with seamlessly blending walls and ceilings, creates an airy and serene atmosphere. Combined with the gentle sea breezes, it becomes the ultimate recreational retreat. With the windows open, the sound of the sea serves as a soothing backdrop, while the acoustic panels on the ceilings ensure an oasis of tranquility.

Ziedlejas is a wellness estate with a vision. From day one this has not been a project with a clear start and end, but rather an ongoing process based on rational decision making in light of changing trends, the social and economic climate. It’s characterised by a very high level of trust between the owners, Open AD and team of landscape architects.

With a secluded location in rural Latvia, Ziedlejas offers natural retreats away from the crowds. Latvian tradition and heritage is at the heart of what it stands for. Two saunas have already been completed and a third is underway. Number 1 or the ‘baltā pirts’ (white sauna) is a concrete structure built into the hillside to avoid interfering with the view from the guest cabins. It benefits from natural light and the proximity of the pond for jumping into. The design concept is based around locally sourced natural materials like wood, herbs and linen. The more primeval ‘melnā pirts’ (smoke sauna) is built from spruce and fittingly tucked into the woods. While the sauna buildings remain traditional in terms of their purpose, we made sure to enhance functionality and overall aesthetics from a contemporary design perspective.

A timely addition in 2020 were the four guest cabins in corten steel and glass. Tea houses by day and bedrooms by night, they are designed to be multifunctional. The glass front affords unspoilt views of the landscape and stars at night. Thanks to the neighbouring herb patches, guests can literally pick and mix their own herbal tea blend. Staff will happily explain the properties of each plant.

Future plans include building a central pavilion to host weddings, yoga classes, conferences, wakes and other events. The third sauna or ‘aitas vilnas pirts’ (sheep’s wool sauna) is said to have special healing properties. Another, larger building will house the reception, bicycle hire and a handful of guest rooms.

The Ziedlejas story is all about maintaining Latvian heritage but not being afraid of going with the times. It is and will be a place to get a sense of the local spirit and an understanding of local ways. Guests can learn about traditions and folklore. Everything here is as local as can be with a deep respect towards craftsmanship, the environment and the growing human desire to reconnect with nature.

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.

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.

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.

Every neighbourhood deserves its own landmark. So far, Riga’s Grīziņkalns is a largely residential area with patches of an industrial past and a still-functioning liquor factory lining the railway. It has no true beating heart. Our vision for a former factory building is to transform it into a lively hub for residents, employees and visitors who arrive on foot, by train, bike or car. Clearly visible from the Zemitāni bridge, the Grīziņdārzs mixed use quarter would serve as the neighbourhood’s business card.

As a true multi-purpose space, level one of Grīziņdārzs will feature bars and restaurants, while levels two and three will house offices and coworking areas. With rooftop terraces trending in cities from Bangkok to LA, their potential in Riga is yet to be fulfilled. At Grīziņdārzs, rooftop gardens and terraces are an intrinsic element on levels three and four, providing employees with a chance to swap the office chair for a comfortable spot outdoors. The rooftop bar on level five is another important element to encourage socialising, boost team spirit and employee wellbeing. After all, the workplace is where we spend so much of our lives.

From 1938 to 1988 the building served as a knitwear factory. While keen to give it a new lease of life, we thought it important to respect the building’s history. Some remaining features allowed us to play around with our creativity. Thus a water reservoir beneath the courtyard will become an underground drinking hole. And pavements are designed to resemble knitting patterns.

This project is a concrete jem in the middle of Eden. While creating this project our emhasis was on blending in with the historical surroundings. For time being this has been Bieriņi manor garden and with discreet architectyre we are trying to keep the feeling. By just passing by, this seems as a part of the park, but beyond the valnis is oasis of family peace.

The house is made by aesthetic planes, using combinations of different materials. When thinking about the finish, sustainable and ageless solutions are used – concrete, metal, glass and wood. The wide glass planes reflect the surrounding landscape, organically integrating the building even deeper into nature. Clean architectural lines are maintained throughout the form, creating a sense of order both architecturally and functionally. One such example is the casement windows placed behind perforated trim panels. This rusted finish is also related to the new buildings of the neighboring manor, which have a rusted wood finish. By choosing a similar tone, we are adapting, but not copying the existing design. This is the main task of this project – to integrate into the environment – and it seems to have been accomplished.

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-centred 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.

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.

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.

Nestled in Pāvilosta, a town with roots in fishing, this residence subtly blends into its vibrant surroundings, drawing inspiration from the area’s traditional wooden homes. Designed as a family retreat, the structure reflects the calm and resilience of the Baltic Sea. Key features include a dual-sloped roof compliant with local architectural norms and expansive windows that connect the interior with the seaside ambiance. The design thoughtfully integrates window shutters, ensuring privacy and protection, particularly during off-seasons. The interior, characterized by its use of natural materials like wood and concrete, mirrors the external simplicity and coastal context. Sustainable practices are embedded in the design, with a recirculation system for energy efficiency. This Pāvilosta home, with its minimalist yet functional approach, harmonizes with its seaside setting while embracing modern living standards.

Inside, the residence thrives on authentic simplicity, with a focus on natural materials that tell a story of Latvian coastal living. The kitchen, marked by its harmonious blend of location-inspired design and minimalism, uses materials like plywood and wooden planks to emphasize purity and functionality.

Pāvilosta’s charm as a historic fishing village deeply influences the residence’s design. The building regulations of the town are meticulously adhered to, allowing the structure to blend seamlessly into the existing coastal environment. The residence’s strategic positioning parallel to the sea enhances its transparency and connection to the surrounding natural beauty.

Once a Soviet-style sanatorium, soon to be apartments. As strong believers in the idea of reuse and recycling, we chose to keep what remained of the original buildings. The structures were certainly sturdy enough and suitable for reestablishing as a residential property. Rather than seeing the buildings’ past use and layout as a burden, we saw their potential to become spacious apartments and high-ceilinged lofts. One of the unique lofts is set in the bridge which connected two separate volumes of the sanatorium.

Jurmala, the location of Edinburgh Apartments & Lofts, is a historical resort town on the Baltic Sea coast. Once scattered in wooden cottages and villas, the town is now a mix of quaint summer residences, towering hotel and apartment complexes. While more populated in summer, Jurmala is far from abandoned in winter. Permanent residents choose it for the proximity of nature, the beach, Riga and its international airport.

Edinburgh Apartments & Lofts nods to the historical architecture of Jurmala. Our design concept embraces the lattice wood of the resort’s original summer residences. By adding the colourful balconies and patios we ensured that every apartment has its personal outdoor space. Residents therefore have a strong connection to their surroundings and can enjoy the fresh, pine-scented air.

In the last few years, Jurmala had acquired the reputation of being an expensive and luxurious place to live. Through a sensible choice of materials and in respect of the developers’ intentions, we ensured that Edinburgh Apartments & Lofts is an affordable, family-friendly choice. The proposal for the landscape includes garden plots, a playground and space for exercising to encourage residents to come together and build their own community.

In this project, the timeless charm of a traditional barnhouse silhouette is seamlessly blended with modern architectural elements, rooted in the existing foundations along the Baltic coastline. The design employs a dualstructure approach: the main section reflects the classic barnhouse form with its iconic gabled roof, while an adjoining minimalist extension introduces a contemporary contrast, complete with a rooftop terrace reminiscent of coastal viewing towers. The interior layout is thoughtfully oriented towards the sea, with key spaces like the main living hall, master bedroom, and sauna strategically positioned to capture mesmerizing sea views, integrating the serene coastal ambiance into the living experience. The external façade features Corten steel, chosen for its durability and low maintenance qualities, ideal for the coastal environment. This material not only withstands the Baltic Sea’s harsh weather conditions but also evolves aesthetically over time, offering a dynamic, protective finish without the need for regular upkeep.

This architectural fusion, bridging traditional and modern styles, creates a unique residence that respects its historical context while embracing contemporary design, resulting in a home that is both a tribute to its Baltic roots and a forward-looking piece of architecture.

The architectural design of this project cleverly integrates expansive glass facades within the traditional barnhouse form, enhancing natural light and fostering a dialogue between the interior spaces and the rugged Baltic seascape. The use of geometric shapes and clean lines introduces a modern dynamism to the classic rural silhouette, offering a new example of how a modern coastal architectural landscape could look like. context of the image above. context of the image above.

The House of the Flying Trees (HOFT) combines a respect for history with contemporary functionality and an understanding of the human need to feel a connection nature. We added a new residential volume to the remaining 19th century facade building. Every apartment has a balcony overlooking a central courtyard. This secluded outdoor haven is designed to inspire residents to connect and encourage a sense of community.

The ‘flying’ trees are both an homage to Art Nouveau with its nature-inspired motifs, and a way to bring nature into the city. Grown in a special nursery, the conifers and bonsai trees are particularly robust and resilient. We designed special stands and boxes for them to ‘fly’ at many levels and be constantly present.

Since HOFT is lucky to face some of Riga’s most striking examples of Art Nouveau, we embraced the location in our design. All front-facing rooms benefit from large windows, so the opposite buildings become like a painting and an integral part of the room. Indoors, we interpreted Art Nouveau in our choice of shapes, materials and the overall flow of the space.

HOFT is an apartment complex for the 21st century, proving that city centres can still be very liveable.

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.

In this project, practicality meets design, creating a user-friendly environment that complements the vibrant atmosphere of ‘VEF kvartāls’

Adjacent to the Koknese Castle ruins,  is a tribute to harmonizing contemporary architectural design with the profound historical and natural landscape of the area.

Inspired by the ruins of Koknese Castle, our project involves the construction of a building that not only complements the landscape but also emphasizes its historical significance. The structure, comprised of two parallel volumes integrated into the terrain, is carefully oriented towards the ruins. When viewed from the river or the castle itself, it was crucial for us to present the narrow end of the building to the observer, creating an appearance of lightness and minimal footprint, ensuring it doesn’t obstruct or disrupt the natural slope on which it sits.

The use of reflective glass at the ends of the structure aids in blending the building into its natural surroundings. Functionally, one volume is dedicated to residential quarters, while the other facilitates active communal living and services. A connecting central section serves as both a transit and visual axis, directing views towards the castle ruins. This section not only separates the two main volumes but also leads down to the lower level, integrating the entire structure into a cohesive unit that respects its historic context and the natural landscape. Landscaping around the building further integrates it with the environment, creating a seamless transition between the structure and the natural beauty of the Koknese area.

Complementing the primary residence, we’re also crafting a modular sauna structure that aligns with the narrative of the main house, right down to the central stair positioning. This sauna features a clear glass wall that provides a direct view of the Kokneses Castle ruins. The structure also includes an outdoor kitchen and a space for relaxation to allow its’ residents to take the full advantage of the scenery, and the presence of nature and history.

The School Street 17 project in Riga exemplifies the integration of modern, minimalist architecture within the historical context of the city center. Rather than merely coexisting, our approach is to harmonize with the surroundings and enhance the distinctive character of Riga’s city center by attentively aligning with the rhythm, proportions, and cornice heights of the neighboring buildings.The design philosophy centers on tektonism, where the facade’s character is shaped by its structure rather than ornate details or layering.

The building features three-layer concrete panels that are prefabricated, ensuring not only a quick construction process but also controlled quality. These panels serve a dual purpose, forming both the exterior and interior, resulting in a seamless, ascetic, and dynamic façade without reliance on decorative elements. 

At the rooftop, the design transitions to glass structures, while at the ground level, the focus is on highlighting the entrance node and the motif of the gateway.

The interior echoes the exterior’s language, offering a slightly softer and more detailed finish, yet retaining the elegant, monochrome theme.

A safe space to cleanse the body and mind. To indulge in a private spiritual ritual. The Wool Sauna is the latest addition to Ziedlejas – a wellness resort centred around the Latvian sauna culture. With wool-clad interior walls, the sauna experience here benefits from the healing presence of lanolin, which evaporates in the heat. The Wool Sauna’s material palette of wood, concrete and natural fabrics ties it in with the resort, yet it also has its own unique energy and identity.

The architecture and design contribute, starting from the meditative approach. A wooden walkway leads saunagoers to the sauna building. Not merely a practical means to get from A to B, the weaving path prepares the mind for what’s to come, encouraging introspection.

Every detail contributes to the sensory and spiritual process. We identified opportunities to add new dimensions to the classic sauna experience. During breaks from the heat, one can lie back on a net among the trees to feel the closeness of nature. There’s no need to walk far to cool down in water, too – Wool Sauna guests have access to a private plunge pool. The positioning of the building affords impressive views across the woods and Ziedlejas as a whole. Bespoke furniture and select design pieces make it is easy for guests to prepare for and emerge from the experience. We also considered the role of the sauna master and how the design may help them in their work.

As seen at prior buildings at Ziedlejas, we placed an emphasis on craftsmanship and custom solutions.

On the eastern side of the Urals when it snows, it snows. When it’s hot, it’s really hot. Nature makes herself felt, seen and heard through the seasons. There, amid the towering pines and beeches of a park is our client’s private residence. The two geometrically sharp houses create the impression of levitating. Their presence is felt, but subtle.

Ivanka Concrete panels, perforated metal and reflective glass complete the facade. The details continue the patterns visible in the surrounding landscape. Perforations in the metal resemble trees. And the pines and birches reflecting in the windows look just like the real thing. Since the homes sit within the grounds of a park, people walk past. These features perform well visually, as well as afford privacy to residents, so that they can see the landscape, but passers-by can’t see inside. The overhangs and screens also protect from the glare of the sun.

An enclosed courtyard at the heart of the house gives residents their very own, private outdoor area, as well as floods the home in natural light. A gallery encircles the courtyard. Living quarters are spaced around it. Below ground – a private spa, garage and maintenance rooms. The floor plan is designed to make the most of the natural surroundings, while maintaining residents’ privacy. The landscape performs like a live painting to complement the interior of the home.

Latvian legislation protects the coastline from excessive building practices. Newbuilds are not permitted, however, it is possible to build atop existing foundations. Our clients purchased a coastal property with the intent of transforming it. We agreed to the challenge.

The property consisted of four standalone buildings – the main house, a garage, shed and garden house – each with its own character and style. We found a way to keep all structures and unify them stylistically. The two dominant materials – larch and galvanized steel – are inspired by the colours of the sea and sky. The shape of the buildings and their gable roofs echo the vernacular architecture of the historical fishermen’s dwellings, which the Latvian coastline is known for.

While once home to active fishing communities, today’s coastal towns have a mixed identity. Holidaymakers are a big part of the local tapestry. This home is also designed as a family getaway, but liveable throughout the year. Considering its main purpose, our design facilitates flowing freely between the indoors and outdoors. Solutions like the covered second floor balcony provide outdoor access no matter the weather and wind conditions. A sheltered outdoor dining area encourages shared meals with a view across the Gulf of Riga. The positioning of windows across all buildings ensures that the presence of the sea is always felt. Residents can also just watch the sea from a comfortable position on the terrace.

Exuberance-free, the coastal holiday home in Latvia reflects northerners’ reserved and modest nature. No element is purely decorative, in order not to take away from the rugged beauty of the coastal landscape. Even pragmatic elements like the gutters are hidden. The shelving systems built into the façade of the garage and outdoor dining area assist in keeping the exterior tidy. They also allow expanding on the garden, which is designed by Galantus Gardens landscape architecture firm.

The Valgums project represents a transformative journey from architectural dysfunction to refined living. Initially acquired as an unfinished residential structure bereft of both aesthetic and functional considerations, the property has been thoroughly reimagined into a well-designed lakeside home. 

Architecturally, the structure’s awkward eaves were eliminated, giving way to a clean, double-sloped roofline. The original trusswork was retained to maintain a sense of continuity, while all windows were elongated to the floor level to optimize natural light. A large terrace was introduced to rebalance the building’s proportions when viewed from the lake, rendering it as a two-story structure rather than a three-story edifice. This helps to maximize the enjoyment of the sublime lakeside setting.

The redesign prioritizes spacious living areas and a grand master bedroom, with high ceilings amplifying the sense of openness. The  two-level master bedroom with its own bathroom was created by transforming the original garage, and allowed to add another layer of comfort for the owners. A dedicated office space that fits seamlessly into the layout, providing both privacy and accessibility was included as a part of the two level master bedroom design. 

Inside, we’ve created the perfect setting for the owners’ art collection. Varied ceiling heights posed a challenge, but the artwork has been skillfully arranged to complement the space. Lime plaster finishes on the walls and ceilings unify the home’s interior, making it feel cohesive and organic.

This pavilion-style house in Latvia benefits from 360 degree views of the rural landscape. Designed to be an out-of-town residence, it sits within a sparsely populated area where passing wildlife is more common than humans. To make the most of the vivid natural setting, the home itself is minimalist. The exterior is clad in tar-treated pine while the decking is larch. The deck provides ample space to spend a large portion of time in the fresh air. Through the windows and covered sections of the deck, the outdoors can be enjoyed year-round. Indoors, the minimalist story continues. There are no loose ends or redundant features. The purity of the environment helps residents tune into the holiday mindset and put their busy urban lives on hold.

Traditionally, Latvian homes have always had some form of yard and this was important to the owner. We designed a terraced garden to create that pocket of privacy and amplify the sense of ownership and belonging to the place. The rest of the landscape has been left to grow wild for minimum impact on the natural environment.

Vecāķi is one of Riga’s coastal neighbourhoods once popular as a summer destination but now in demand for year-round living. Nevertheless, 1960s and 70s Soviet-style summer houses or dachas still dot the area. Respect for the surroundings and existing architecture guided our choice of shape for this family home with its single pitch roof and exaggerated eaves. As per the client’s wishes we observed the principles of Vedic architecture in the design and build of the home. This is unusual for a northern climate but can be implemented.

In-keeping with the Vastu Shastra philosophy, the living quarters face north and the home is entered from one side. Inside are both common areas and separate quarters for the adults and younger generation. They are positioned around a central atrium or metaphorical emptiness. The main entrance and central atrium fit together like a hand in glove. Each continues the other’s story. The external light, for example, reflects off the window to create the illusion that it shines both inside and outside.

A wooden walkway surrounds the house to ensure uninterrupted access to the garden and encourage spending time outdoors. Historically, people maintained gardens, vegetable plots and small orchards at their dachas in Vecāķi, therefore the landscape architecture nods to the area’s past and complements the house.

The home in Vecāķi is a partial prefab with a timber and metal structure. Its facade combines wood and Cembrit panels.

Once a glass and ceramics factory, the modernist building in Barcelona is up for a transformation. Its new identity – 22 Palms – will see us turn it into an office complex. The original structure will be preserved.

In honour of the building’s past, the two additional floors are fitted with glass, which bathes the interiors in a natural light. The resulting ambience conjures references to the Sagrada Familia where some of the former factory’s creations were installed.

Inside, we divided the interior into zones to cater to the changing requirements of today’s workforce. It’s designed to respond to universal human needs like a sense of belonging and community. The different zones help transition from deep work mode to collaborative team meetings and informal moments. A respect for ergonomics is visible in the floor plan, as well as solutions like the acoustic panels, furniture, and air-purifying plants.

Considering the favourable climate, outdoor spaces are not an afterthought. We designed the inner courtyard and rooftop terrace to encourage the building’s users to shift some of their activities outside. Individual workspaces and meeting areas will be placed throughout.

22 Palms illustrates the significant part architects and designers play in today’s workplace and human resource management. It demonstrates the role architects may have in shaping the future of the office.

​​This two-story structure at the junction of Brivibas and Dzirnavu Street will fill the landscape of Riga while the permanent development plans of the building that matches the surrounding skyline are in the making. BR44 is set to house restaurants and luxury car showrooms. Its sleek facade, designed using metal composites, black shading, and expansive glass vitrines, stands as an embodiment of urban minimalism. An exciting addition to the city center, this project illustrates the transformational power of thoughtful architecture.

The Latvian National Opera turned to Open AD to design a seasonal open-air pop up venue when pandemic restrictions pulled the breaks on indoor events. The space had to cater for events such as live performances and film screenings, as well as function during the day to attract potential new audiences to the opera. We visited the opera’s storage facility and spotted intriguing bits of scaffolding and leftovers from previous stage designs. This inspired our idea to bring the backstage into the limelight, which became an exercise in upcycling. We combined the selected parts with bespoke metal details and custom-designed furniture for functionality. Construction was an on-site affair involving the opera’s own technical team under the guidance of the architects. The result is a multipurpose space and neutral backdrop, which comes to life through expressions of culture in its many forms.

WHITE SQUARE facilitates moments of work and rest, networking and conversations. Along with attending events, visitors can fill their water bottle, charge their phone and laptop. It’s a meeting point where paths cross and worlds collide. Philosophically, it questions the imaginary borders we all construct. Between actors and their audience. Social groups. The public and the government. By blurring the lines between the backstage, stage and audience, it makes one wonder why we fear the unknown? It also addresses sustainability and challenges conventional understandings of beauty, by giving new life to forgotten resources.

A home in Riga designed by architects for their own use. Located in a wooded neighbourhood. The architects meticulously planned the placement of the house on the plot of land to integrate the old birch trees in the landscape. Every window is placed to make the most of the surroundings and connect the interior with the nature outdoors. The home was built off-site as a prefab. The cladding is quality timber sourced in Estonia and treated with the Tikkurila Grey Wood product which gives the home a silver patina. Its slanted southwestern facade creates the visual impression that the house is sliding. An intentionally sculptural shape. The timber is complemented by a metal entrance portal and window frames. The metal was allowed to rust naturally.

Every part of the property plays a role in the overall story. The concrete patio is a smooth continuation of the house connecting it to the garden with outdoor fireplace. Indoors, the story continues with the use of timber for walls and ceilings, as well as the colour palette. Although, at 189 m2 the overall square footage is large, every bit of space is functional. The staircase with integrated storage is a noteworthy feature designed to be both visually striking and practical. The furniture at this home in Riga is a mix of self-designed and collection pieces which are a smart way to add colour.

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.

This house in Pavilosta on the west coast of Latvia is in a location with strict building regulations. When the owners bought the property we concluded that the original structure could no longer be saved. Instead, it served as inspiration for the new home. Guided by the principles of local building traditions, the house maintains a typical triangular shape, timber cladding, narrow front windows and a wood shingle roof. The timber cladding is Siberian larch which will take on a light grey hue to match the choppy Baltic sea and northern skies on a cloudy day. Grey has become the colour of the modern day town of Pāvilosta.

No matter the weather, the home is flooded with natural light through the tall, west-facing windows at the back of the house and skylights over the kitchen and living room area. Inside, playful features are also inspired by local ways. The living room lighting, for example, is designed to resemble clothes lines.

The home was built off-site as a custom prefab which made for smooth delivery and little disturbance to residents. This respectful approach allowed protecting the old garden with its orchard. Now, perennials and grasses have been added to complement the apple trees. Between the indoor area and the garden is a terrace split into two zones with the addition of a pergola. Tucked in the back of the garden is a storage shed with an inbuilt nook for firewood.

Underfloor heating and natural, foam-free insulation solutions were a worthwhile investment to ensure this house in Pavilosta is liveable year-round.

Inspired by Japanese tsubo gardens, the inner garden of this home became the compositional centre around which we constructed the building. Japanese garden culture served as overall inspiration. The space around the garden was intended to be transparent, thereby fusing, while at the same time separating the indoors and outdoors. As the project was being implemented, the client decided against the inner garden, so we transformed it into an indoor seating area.

The placement of the building on the plot was guided by the location of the streets and corners, and the movement of the sun. Thanks to our planning, the south side of the second floor receives direct sunlight. Therefore, the second floor bedroom has a spacious terrace with ample plants.

Clad in blackened timber, the boards fit together to create a smooth finish. The main emphasis is placed on form rather than texture. By using metal, we chose to highlight the entrance.

A complete impression of the building is best gained from the footbridge which extends into the garden from the home, connecting it to an outdoor fireplace. The exterior, landscaping and interior come together to create one whole.

This boutique hotel, restaurant and spa in Armenia is located in the greenest area of the country and amidst a fantastic landscape. The architecture is based on organic inclusion into the mountain landscape while also creating a sense of plasticity. Viewpoints are ensured at 360 degrees and each room in the hotel offers a view in at least three directions. Local and natural materials have been used, including wood, basalt, noble metals and stone. The emphasis is more on texture than decoration. Traditional ornaments are offered in a modern and ascetic manner so that the main accent is the surrounding landscape.

An apartment complex surrounded by quiet streets and green courtyards in the quarter between Ernestines, Dreilinu, Ormanu and Struteles streets. Laconic, modern architecture that lives in line with Agenskalns’ historic wooden and brick low-rise buildings. The silhouette of buildings with their gable roofs and natural finishing harmoniously fits into the visual character of the neighbourhood and enriches it. In turn, the ecological building materials and natural tar paint for the facade make the dwellings sustainable and friendly both for man and nature.

For every building, a front and back garden with flowering shrubs has been tended, so to bring dwellers closer to the nature while living the dynamic city rhythm. The landscape is designed with families in mind, so that every generation finds a place for both leisure and active pursuits.

The children’s playground consists of a multifunctional wooden installation, shock absorbing rubber clad relief for climbing and games, a secret tree house, sports area and mountaineering wall. All of this has been functionally and almost imperceptibly integrated into the residential complex, creating a contemporary, comfortable and inspiring environment.

Honouring the wooden architecture and site identity of Agenskalns, the facade is finished in wood but the planes of roof slopes continue the silhouette of historical buildings in area. The dwelling consists of two volumes, each complementing the other while also dividing the preferable amount of space thus blending in the surrounding scale. Contemporary toned down and self-sufficient architecture in a historical and nostalgically romantic neighbourhood of Riga that resembles the province.

I am PELEKAIS. The Grey. I am grey as a baby mouse. I am grey as a bird, as a speck of dust, as ashes. I am the Speck of Dust.
Only because of me can other colours light up.
I am almost the most important colour.
Everything turns beautiful only when I am placed beside.

(The Grey, a tale by Latvian poet Imants Ziedonis)

We believe that a space is there for a person to inhabit and colour it with their personality. An environment can nurture a person and a person can nurture an environment.

Pavilosta, the location of the planned hotel, is a town on the west coast of Latvia. We’re keen to see it develop, yet retain its historical charm. Therefore we decided to give life to one of its abandoned courtyards, enhancing it literally and abstractly, in terms of both functionally and ambience.

The abovementioned poem by Imants Ziedonis would serve as an invitation into the courtyard. It would be engraved on a metal plaque to hint at the adventure that awaits those who enter.

KOYA restaurant is located in an industrial area of Riga with a mix of properties such as abandoned Soviet time port buildings, artists’ workshops and even a yacht club.

KOYA means lean-to or awning in Japanese.The idea was to embrace the existing atmosphere and stylistics of the area, retain it and contribute to it in a creative way while also adding a modern touch.

We created the interior by working with contrasts and materials in large planes and forms rather than decorations and small details. The restaurant building was renovated to retain the effect of the original shed (the existing plank ceiling was left without changes), using the existing brick walls. We added the contemporary feel through the contrast between the old robust ceiling planks and glossy, smooth black glass wall and adding huge metal chandeliers.

Large planes and sizes, simple new materials (a long bar and standing tables with black metal finishing and oak surfaces), tall plank doors, huge chandeliers and furniture with metal elements. Together they create a contrast against the industrial setting but do not challenge and conflict with it.

The winning concept for a 5* hotel in central Riga. Our proposal is based on each building being part of an overall story on Latvian legends who have played a key part in the development of arts, science, architecture and design in Riga, Latvia and the world. Each volume represents one of the characters.