House of Ruins

The House of Ruins is located in Latvia on the coast of the Baltic Sea. It is a new family house built inside the19th century ruins of a traditional Latvian barn. The architects here have used the idea of contrast where wind from the sea is opposed to the warmth of the family, and perfection of glass is set against rough surface of the old stone. The house provides both, modern life comfort and quietness of the nature. Organised in one level, it also contains a small courtyard and a spacious roof terrace for watching the sea and surrounding meadows.

About the architects: Uldis Luksevics (born 1969) is a founding architect of NRJA, a young architectural practice that has established itself as one of the strongest names in Latvian architecture. NRJA has won numerous competitions and currently working on several major projects including a high-rise hotel in Riga and several large scale residential, commercial and public projects in various locations. Alongside the House of Ruins, completed work of NRJA includes a residential holiday village of ten family houses. NRJA is also known for their brave slogan - no rules just architecture. Martins Osans (born 1977) is architect at NRJA. Location: Saka, Latvia Architects: NRJA (Uldis Luksevics, Martins Osans) Client: Una and Andris Vitolins General Constructor: RBS Skals Awards: Latvian Architecture Prize, Grand Prix (2006); Interior Digest Magazine, Best Technology Award (2006) www.nrja.lv