Design for this irregular building constructed in tight area of the very heart of Old Riga Town was developed after winning an international architectural competition. Prior to World War II, Skārņu street 11 was the location of a five-story apartment building with a butcher shop on the first floor. Building restores the historical spatial structure and also takes into account the Medieval structures around, including St.Peter’s church.
Evaluation of the Latvian Architecture Award jury:
The structure represents a highly professional understanding of environmental context, scale and detail. It has been built with respect for the historical context of the location and by successfully overcoming the complexities of urban construction. It’s easy to see that all the architectural techniques – shape of volume, choice of materials and detailing – are a direct dialogue with the crowded area and it’s demands. The solution is smart and contemporary, and manages well without any youthfully boisterous contrasts, literal references or imitation of historical techniques, as can be seen elsewhere.