Gentlemen's Apartment in Riga | Open Architecture Design

Located in an ornate Art Nouveau building in central Riga, the apartment spans across its top two floors, which include an adapted attic. We took on its complete transformation from floor plan to furniture and fixtures. The location, history of the building and the client’s lifestyle inspired us to create an apartment that combines the old and new, and makes use of playful yet elegant contrasts.

Historically, the front-facing interiors would have been more luxurious, while the back of the building was reserved for laid-back staff quarters. We chose to preserve the original contrast with shared living quarters facing the street side and bedrooms located at the back. We also ensured a change in atmosphere and aesthetics between both floors. A dramatic statement staircase creates the impression of levitating. Any new volumes such as the silver bathroom unit are inspired by the idea of a space ship - fresh landings in a historical setting.

The apartment is home to a father and son, both adult gentlemen. Our choice of robust natural materials and the colour palette are an interpretation of masculinity. The bespoke wood panelling and marble surfaces create an evocative setting for the handpicked designer furniture and furnishings.

We haven’t forgotten about fun and elements to help separate work and play. Lighting helps conjure different moods and sensations. The sauna area is a space to rest and let loose in the comfort of one's own home. And the quirky tower becomes a grown-up treehouse or man cave.

Design team: Zane Tetere-Sulce, Dace Bula, Zane Araja, Ieva Makena (Open AD)

Project manager: Arturs Nedelskis

Parquet: Proffloor

Fireplace: Agni

Furniture, fittings and sauna supplier: Krassky

Furniture: MAXALTO Alcor sideboard and console, B&B ITALIA Mirto dining table, Grande Papilio armchair and pouf, MINOTTI Fil Noir dining chair, Yang sofa, Leslie armchair and footstool, MERIDIANI Belt coffee table and Gong Due night table, POLIFORM Bolton bed, LIVING DIVANI Pebble vanity table

LED lighting: Spectrum

Technical lighting: Flos, TAL

Decorative lighting: Baxter, Artemide, Bert Frank, Anour, Marset, Flos, Platek, Lasfera

Bathroom fixtures and fittings: Ceramica Cielo, GROHE Essence, Ideavit Solidellipse, Tubes, Antrax, Cosmic

Interior paint: Fleetwood VOGUE®️

Construction work: VV Construction