As part of the Riga Castle сonvent restoration project, one of Latvia’s most significant historical landmarks was revived. The 16th-century wing, which now houses the Latvian National Museum of History, has been carefully restored. The main goal of the project team was to create a visual identity that would serve both as the museum's signature image and as the backbone for future stages of the castle’s renovation. The works included renewal of façade, restructuration of the floor plan, reconstruction of historical volumes, and other complex restoration solutions.
Based on KRASSKY professional reputation and broad experience with the architectural lighting brand Erco, the project architect Reinis Liepiņš (Sudraba arhitektūra) invited KRASSKY to develop an alternative solution to the previously designed standardized lighting plan. To preserve architectural integrity, designers required an approach that would seamlessly integrate into the historical environment rather than disrupt it. As a result, KRASSKY lighting architect Pēteris Ponnis created a concept tailored to the castle's complex geometry and authentic character. The key priorities were the respect for the historical substance and user-friendly solutions, which included discreet fixture designs and their placement. A specific request from the client was the use of round-shaped fixtures.
At the initial stage of the project, the lighting architect carefully studied the existing plan and conducted nighttime demonstrations, as well as pilot measurements to determine the most suitable light beam rays, fixture locations, and their optimal quantities. It was crucial that fixtures were moisture resistant, especially in the basement and outdoor areas. Flexible adjustability of the luminaires and visually comfortable lighting were also important. As a result, the project features lighting solutions by such brands as Erco, Occhio, iGuzzini, and Lightnet.
As it was not possible to install wiring into the building’s historic walls and ceilings, one of the project’s key technical innovations was developed: freestanding columns that incorporate lighting and video surveillance. The integrated rail system allows flexible positioning of fixtures and integration of emergency lighting. Circular Lightnet system in the entrance lobby is also technically complex. With integrated emergency lighting, it also includes adjustable spotlights that provide even illumination of the ceilings and all over the space.
KRASSKY design contribution ensured that Riga Castle lighting both meets modern technical standards and harmoniously complements the historical and cultural value of the space.
Project concept and implementation: Sudraba arhitektūra (Reinis Liepiņš) and MARK arhitekti (Anastasija Pimenova)
Lighting architect: Pēteris Ponnis, KRASSKY
Year: 2023
Location: Pils laukums 3, Riga, Latvia
Area: 4400 m²
