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Grizindarzs is one of OAD’s ongoing large-scale projects, where we are working on transforming a former industrial district into a multifunctional environment for both business and culture. Located between two bridges in Riga's historical neighborhood Grizinkalns, the quarter has already been an integral part of the area for decades. During Soviet era the building complex served as a knitwear factory. Today, it is a ‘slow architecture’ project that aims to revitalize the area while preserving its historical legacy. The intention is to return the space to the community, making the ‘creative city Grizindarzs’ a central landmark of the region.

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With the transformation of Grizindarzs courtyard we have addressed the need for a human-centered multi-purpose public space. Through an efficient reorganization of traffic flow, the former parking is reshaped into a meeting point and recreation area for the community. At its core lies a former water reservoir, now concealed beneath a wooden stage structure that functions as an adaptable venue for concerts, events, and local markets. Public access to this previously unused structure is provided through a corten steel entrance, where the bunker’s circular form is revealed, supported by concrete beams and animated by hidden pockets of skylight.

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International Contemporary Art Festival ‘Survival Kit’ 2025 ‘The House of Simurgh.’  Photo by Kaspars Teilans, courtesy of the Latvian Centre for Contemporary Art.

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Located in the K3 building of the ever-evolving ‘Grīziņdārzs’ district, the ‘RA Invest’ office optimizes a seamless integration of design and functionality. Multifunctional space designed for diverse needs, the office features an acoustically sealed cabin for focused work within the open-plan layout. The kitchen and dining area, doubling as a workspace, is flooded with natural light, while the wooden conference room offers a sophisticated yet functional retreat. Our approach to modern workspace design is illustrated by the balance of privacy and connectivity, fostering a productive and collaborative environment.

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Guided by the principles of ‘slow architecture’, the project is evolving organically, with the long-term goal of fostering a lively 24/7 environment. The site is located beneath two bridges. Inspired by this rare perspective, our proposed design is a unique rooftop landscape visible from above. The concept introduces signature angular corten roofs alongside offices enriched with green terraces, reinforcing distinct ‘Grizindarzs’ identity and welcoming nature back into the city. The restoration of a tower will further establish ‘Grizindarzs’ role as a local landmark, while serving the community as a showroom and cultural venue.

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Envisioned as a place of free expression, the site holds enormous potential. Raw industrial interiors reimagined as offices, where exposed concrete walls meet contemporary design, create a dialogue between modernism and architectural heritage.

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