Gipsa Fabrika apartments. Conversion of a former gypsum factory

Situated on the left bank of the river Daugava, the Gipsa Fabrika development is the most exclusive housing project built yet in Riga, Latvia. The Gipsa Fabrika apartment complex consists of five residential units and a river restaurant, surrounding a quiet courtyard with a chimney and water pump. During this project derelict gypsum factory, heavily used in the 19th century but later abandoned, was turned into a diverse range of flats, studios and terraced English and Dutch style houses for modern people.

The conversion of the gypsum factory is a unique project that offers not only the most beautiful views of the old town and the river, but also a quiet living space on a green island not far from the historical centre of Riga. Each phase of the development, from the renovated Old House, the Main House, the Dutch Houses and the English Houses through to the newly built terraced houses, represent historical values of the local industrial heritage. Named after the old gypsum factory, the Gipsa Fabrika apartments provide a varied range of house types within one conceptually strong complex. It is finished in a range of different locally produced materials including recycled and specially coloured brick, recycled timber and carefully selected details. There is a strong feel of Latvian architectural traditions, along with the latest concepts of modern living.

The interior of each apartment is carefully designed to complement the original character of the whole complex. The living areas boast oiled, timber floors; hand—made concrete tiles in the kitchens, bathrooms and public spaces; historically researched wall finishings, and cast iron radiators that balance high—tech built in kitchens, wardrobes and bathrooms. Each apartment displays its own unique character. Neither conventional family homes nor city apartments, the developments are suitable for contemporary city dwelling, while also offering rural retreat within a short walking, driving or cycling distance. There is a strong feel of modern simplicity and use of all available spaces. The Gipsa Fabrika has its own restaurant that has become a success thanks to its location next to the river and an atmosphere well rooted in the architecture of the whole building. The Gipsa Fabrika is a project that brings its residents closer to understanding historical values of their city, as well as to architecture that is both local and international. Words by Ieva Zibarte, architect and journalist