Exuberance-free, the home echoes Latvians’ reserved and modest character. No element is purely decorative in order not to distract from the rugged beauty of the landscape. Even elements like drains and gutters are hidden or replaced with a rain chain. Latvian legislation does not permit new buildings within a certain distance from the coastline, however, building on existing foundations is allowed. With this in mind Open AD’s clients purchased a coastal property with the plan to transform it. The property consisted of a main house, a garage, shed and garden house - all mismatched.
Open AD identified how to preserve all the structures, give them a shared identity and tie them in with the location. The choice of the two dominant materials - larch and galvanized steel – is inspired by the colours of the sea and sky. The shape of the buildings and their gable roofs echo the vernacular architecture of the coastal area's historical fishermen’s dwellings. While once home to active fishing communities, today’s coastal towns also depend on tourism. This home is designed as a family getaway, but liveable throughout the year.
Considering its main purpose, Open AD’s design encourages spending time 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 facilitates 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. Photographer: Alvis Rozenbergs Architecture and project management: Zane Tetere-Sulce, Dace Bula, Eva Heidingere-Jukama