Gauja National Park Nature Centre, 1 Baznīcas Street, Sigulda

"BALTS UN MELNS" project in the Gauja National Park is a tribute to the symbiosis of nature and history. By restoring the historic tavern building at 1 Baznīcas Street, Sigulda, and adding a contemporary timber and glass structure, a space has been created that inspires the exploration of biodiversity.

Through its transparency, the new extension dissolves the boundary between the interior and the picturesque slopes of the Gauja valley. Architecture here serves as an educational tool, utilising sustainable materials and innovative engineering solutions. Environmental accessibility and universal design are project priorities, ensuring ease of access throughout the entire site.

Outdoor terraces and laboratories are designed to establish a direct connection with the environment and the natural terrain. The project restores the historical scale of the site while providing a modern contribution to the urban landscape. Every detail, from the green roofs to the timber facades, emphasises a mindful approach to natural resources. This is a nature centre that does not merely tell a story about the environment but is an inherent part of it.