The Latvian Landscape: New Homes in the Baltic Countryside

On the eastern shores of the Baltic Sea, Latvia’s landscape is composed of lowland fields, farms, and hilly pastures. The country’s natural beauty has been well preserved, and offers hundred of miles of untouched seashore and scenic forests to explore. Wooden houses dating back centuries can still be found in the countryside and in Riga, one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Baltic states.

After gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the Latvian government funded efforts to reconnect with local culture and foster a new artistic identity. Architect Gunnar Birkerts designed a new concert hall and National Library in Riga, giving locals new places to commemorate the country’s cultural contributions. The mission of architects and city planners across the region was twofold: to honor Latvia’s layered, complicated history, and yet work to establish a fresh visual identity for their young country in the wake of Soviet occupation.

Much of the new Latvian architecture reflects a willingness to reimagine the contemporary landscape, creating an environment distinct from the heavy Stalinist architecture of the 20th century. The following collection of homes offers a taste of how many Latvians live now:

8 Blacks by NRJA, Kuldīga, Latvia

Situated atop a grassy hill, the minimalist, monochrome design of the 8 Blacks house contrasts the surrounding green landscape. The design successfully mixes the traditional with the modern, recalling old wooden houses from centuries past as well as the monochromatic, austere minimalism of many Northern European homes.

Detached House by ARHIS, Jūrmala, Latvia

The latest renovation of this traditional Latvian home includes a glass living room space. In contrast to the rest of the house — as well as its surrounding neighbors — the glass walls add a distinctly modern look. The occupants enjoy a view of the woods from inside their home and on the external deck.

Holiday Home at Aluksnes Lake by AB3D Ltd., Alūksne, Latvia

This two-level lake home is designed to complement the surrounding hilly landscape. The elegantly designed interior feels contemporary, with plenty of light coming in through glass walls and a gorgeous view of the Aluksnes lake. Only the wooden façade reminds us of more traditional homes typical of the area.

Guna Villa by gmp – von Gerkan, Marg and Partners Architects, Jūrmala, Latvia

This modern split-level villa welcomes guests with its open layout and ramps leading up the stairs. The house is located close to the Baltic Sea, with a stunning view of untouched Latvian dunes.

Villa Pinia by ARK-house Architects,Jūrmala, Latvia

Situated on a pine forest lot near the Baltic Sea, this modern home is inspired by the colors and textures found on ships in the nearby waterfront. The design focuses on the relationship between the levitating white volume of the second story and the surrounding trees.

Softbox TiriPiri byARHIS,Plieņciems, Latvia

The glazed façades and gray tin finish give this Latvian home a contemporary feel. The outdoor deck gives the inhabitants plenty of communal space to enjoy. Custom-made furniture gives the home a cohesive look, and includes a particularly inventive staircase design.

Private House in Marupe by Open AD, Mārupe, Latvia

Inspired by Japanese garden architecture, the clean-cut shapes and front lawn define the design. Made up of several distinct volumes, the house has a markedly different shape depending on the angles from which it is viewed.