Riga Family Home Renovation
Riga | Residential | 2023
This residential family apartment is located in the heart of Riga’s Art Nouveau district, designed in collaboration with Latvian interior designers Raimonds Siferis and project manager Janis Veveris. The design concept was inspired by traditional American interiors, reflecting the client’s many years spent living in the U.S. The space combines cherry wood and repurposed furniture from the client’s previous homes, blending personal history with timeless design elements.
​
The design process began with a consultation to understand the client’s lifestyle and how to reflect their history and personality within the space. Our primary goal was to create a space that felt both comfortable and sophisticated, integrating American traditional design elements with the unique charm of Riga’s Art Nouveau district. We carefully selected materials, including high-quality cherry wood and incorporated personal items, such as repurposed furniture, that added both emotional value and design cohesion.
​​
We worked closely with the client to select fabrics and furniture that would create a timeless atmosphere while ensuring functionality. The design also included bespoke pieces, such as an extendable dining table, custom kitchen furniture and storage elements in private areas of the apartment, including wardrobes and beds. These bespoke pieces were created with both the client's style and practical needs in mind.
​
​One of the challenges in this project was balancing the historical and personal elements with the need for a modern, functional living space. We addressed this challenge by carefully selecting pieces from the client’s collection and upcycling them by updating the fabric and reinterpreting them to fit the modern design. The cherry wood and repurposed furniture were integrated seamlessly into the overall design, honouring the client’s memories while enhancing the apartment’s aesthetic appeal.
​
Another significant challenge was the integration of two apartments into a single, cohesive living space. We worked with an architect to combine the two units by designing a new internal staircase that ensured a seamless flow between the floors. This involved optimising both the layout and functionality to create a unified space, improving the overall flow without compromising the character of the building.
​​
An additional element of this project was designing the terrace and collaborating with a gardener to maximise the outdoor space. By incorporating greenery and functional outdoor furniture, we were able to create a tranquil retreat that complements the interior design.
The dining area is centred around a bespoke extendable table in rich cherry wood, designed to adapt from intimate family meals to larger gatherings. Its leg is finished in spray bronze paint, chosen for its warm metallic tone and its ability to age gracefully - developing patina and character over time, much like solid bronze.
Above the table, we selected a black matt metal OLEV LED Overfly Plus pendant , whose sculptural form and soft, diffused glow create an inviting atmosphere for dining. Surrounding the table, Connubia Calligaris Tuka chairs in warm grey fabric offer comfort and complement the depth of the cherry wood, completing the space with understated elegance.
%20(4).jpg)
The kitchen island serves as a multifunctional hub, offering storage, prep space and a casual spot for quick meals. To visually balance the strong presence of the cherry cabinetry and granite surfaces, we selected a set of three slim, understated matte black metal pendants above the island.
This quiet design choice softens the overall composition, allowing the craftsmanship and materials of the island to take centre stage while maintaining a harmonious flow with the rest of the room. For seating, we opted for Connubia Calligaris Tuka barstools - matching the dining chairs in form but finished in supple leather upholstery for a refined contrast with matching matte black metal legs.
%20(21).jpg)
The bespoke kitchen is crafted entirely from custom cherry wood joinery, chosen for its timeless warmth and durability. An integrated wine appliance is built seamlessly into the cabinetry, combining functionality with a clean-lined aesthetic. The granite worktops introduce a natural, tactile contrast, while carefully selected matte metal hardware complements the joinery without overpowering it. All major appliances - including the cooker, oven and fridge - are fully integrated to maintain the streamlined design.
Subtle LED strip lighting is built into the underside of the counters, adding a soft, moody glow that enhances the warmth of the materials and elevates the kitchen’s inviting atmosphere. Every detail, from the placement of the handles to the texture of the stone, was considered to ensure the space feels both highly functional and visually refined.
%20(9).jpg)
In the liminal space between the living room and kitchen, we gave new life to cherished furniture pieces by reupholstering them in luxurious Pierre Frey silk fabric - preserving their sentimental value while updating them for a contemporary setting. Beside them sits a custom-made side table, its leg profile echoing the silhouette of the extendable dining table. The tabletop is crafted from the same stone used for the living room’s built-in furniture shelf, creating a subtle yet deliberate connection between the two spaces.
​​
On the adjacent cherry wood-panelled wall, we installed a vintage convex mirror positioned to face the terrace and street beyond. Its curved form captures and reflects the surrounding scenery back into the interiors, adding both visual interest and a poetic link to the world outside. Together, these elements layer personal history, craftsmanship and thoughtful detailing into a cohesive, narrative-rich space.
%20(23).jpg)
The living room is anchored by a large bespoke built-in unit in cherry wood, featuring a stone shelf and an integrated fireplace - a focal point that unites warmth, texture and discreet storage. The clean architectural lines of the joinery are softened by the addition of the sculptural Julep sofa and Julep Swivel armchair, whose curved silhouettes create a gentle contrast against the structure’s precision.
The upholstery tones of the sofa and armchair were carefully chosen to complement the surrounding materials - the rich cherry wood, the natural stone of the shelf and the broader interior palette. Even in its work-in-progress state, the balance of form, function and materiality is already evident, promising a finished space that will feel both inviting and visually striking.
Frequently asked questions
What interior design style would you describe this apartment is resembling?
We believe that every space should reflect the client's unique personality, rather than conforming to a predefined style like minimalism, bohemian or mid-century modern. Our design approach begins with understanding the client’s lifestyle, values and history, thus crafting a style that is personal to them.
For this project, we delved into the client’s heritage and took into account their emotional attachment to furniture from their previous home in the U.S. While they appreciated the traditional American Art Deco style, we knew sticking strictly to that would limit the design’s potential. Instead, we created a contemporary interpretation of this style, blending it with their personal items and preferences. This resulted in a one-of-a-kind eclectic space that reflects their story, rather than fitting into a universally defined style.
What is eclectic interior design?
Eclectic interior design is about mixing and matching various styles, periods and influences to create a unique, personalised space. It’s a blend of old and new, traditional and modern, with a focus on creating a space that feels authentic to the individual. By carefully selecting pieces that resonate with your personality and lifestyle, eclectic design can reflect your personal history, travels and tastes while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.
How much time did the entire interior design process take?
From the initial consultation to handing over the completed design package, the entire process took just over a year and a falf. The scale of the apartment was large, spanning 280 sqm, which required careful planning and attention to detail. This timeline included all phases of design, from conceptualisation to finalising bespoke pieces and coordinating with the project manager for site supervision.
Can an interior designer help decide how to upcycle existing furniture in the apartment?
Absolutely! In our studio, one of our core beliefs is reuse over demolition when it comes to spaces. This philosophy extends to furniture as well - we always aim to preserve and repurpose what we can, seeing the potential within the old. A key part of our design process is working closely with clients to upcycle existing pieces.
In this project, we carefully selected and reinterpreted the client’s vintage furniture, updating fabrics and finishes to integrate them seamlessly into the new design. This approach allowed us to preserve their sentimental value while enhancing the overall aesthetic of the space.
What are some common challenges when designing an eclectic interior design space?
Designing an eclectic space can present challenges such as achieving visual harmony amidst diverse elements and ensuring that the space doesn't feel cluttered. It's important to balance contrasting styles and colours thoughtfully. Working with an experienced interior designer can help navigate these challenges, ensuring that each piece complements the others and contributes to a cohesive and inviting environment. For personalised guidance, consider booking a consultation with us to explore how eclectic design can be tailored to your home.
What design services did the client chose for this project?
For this project, the client chose a full-service design package, starting with an initial consultation and site visit. From there, we developed a design concept, selected furniture, materials and finishes, and designed bespoke furniture pieces to fit their needs. We also created detailed layout plans to ensure the space was both functional and beautiful. Once the concept was finalised, we worked closely with Project Manager Janis Veveris to assist with site supervision, ensuring the design was executed according to plan.