NRJA has reconstructed a former tobacco factory for the Latvian Academy of Culture to create a new cultural place in Riga, Latvia.

This project transforms former factory buildings into the National Film School of the Latvian Academy of Culture (the black house), a Film Pavilion and the House of Sciences (the coral-coloured house).

The site's comprehensive design includes solutions of architecture, landscape, interior, navigation, typography and all essential engineering systems.

The master plan guided the functional division of spaces, reflected in the façades and surface treatments through thoughtful use of colour. Interior design continues the architectural concept, enhancing the existing structural qualities.

The result is a cohesive, high-quality and inspiring environment tailored to support creativity, learning and innovation in education, film and science.

This project has been longlisted in the education project category of Dezeen Awards 2025.

Studio: NRJA
Project: Reconstruction of a Former Tobacco Factory for the Latvian Academy of Culture
Credits: VNI, Latvian Academy of Culture, Marels Buve, Articul and Vizulo