Riga Latvia

Located on what is considered one of the oldest sites in Riga, the six-apartment building with ground-floor commercial space sits among landmarks like St. John’s Church and St. Peter’s Church, in a UNESCO World Heritage-protected area. The project began with a 2006 international architecture competition aimed at creating a sculptural yet harmonious building. Despite delays from the economic downturn, the project resumed and was completed as envisioned.

The architects followed a hands-on design process, using detailed models and testing brick samples on-site. They chose traditional Boston red brick by Vandersanden, paying close attention to color, texture, and frost resistance, giving the building a timeless but modern feel. A playful brick pattern, inspired by the nearby Town Musicians of Bremen sculpture, adds humor and local context. Each floor houses one apartment, with panoramic views, wooden French windows, and small balconies, while the top floor features a terrace. The building demonstrates that modern architecture can be bold, sensitive, and contextually respectful, reviving historic materials while contributing new character to Riga’s Old Town.