A Contemporary Approach: Why Is Latvia Building with Wood Again?

The trend towards contemporary timber construction is particularly visible in Finland, Sweden, and Norway, where building with wood has become part of climate policy and broader strategies to reduce carbon emissions. In recent years, Latvia has also seen several notable projects reflecting this shift. At first glance, this might seem like a return to tradition in a country where wood has always played an important role. In reality, however, the reasons behind this development are distinctly contemporary.

Latvia’s new “timber wave” has less to do with nostalgia for the historic wooden architecture of the 19th century and more with advances in construction technology.

Contemporary architecture increasingly relies on CLT (cross-laminated timber)—structural panels made from multiple layers of wood bonded together at right angles. Their high strength makes it possible to construct multi-storey buildings, allowing timber to compete with concrete and steel in many applications.

It is precisely these technologies that have allowed wood to move beyond its traditional association with private houses and suburban construction. Across Northern Europe, timber has long been used to build schools, libraries, offices, sports facilities, and cultural centres.

Latvia still has significantly fewer examples, but there are already enough to suggest that a new architectural trend is taking shape. Each of these projects demonstrates that wood is returning to the city—not as a symbol of the past, but as a material for the future.

TZMO Latvija Office and Logistics Centre (2024)

One of the largest timber buildings constructed in Latvia in recent years, the TZMO Latvija complex is a compelling example of how wood can be successfully used not only in residential architecture but also in commercial infrastructure. The complex brings together office space, a shop, a logistics centre, and a warehouse.

More than 1,150 m³ of timber structures were used in its construction, primarily CLT panels and glued laminated timber. In 2025, the project received the Grand Prix at the “Best Building in Latvia 2024” competition.

Ogre Central Library (2021)

One of Latvia’s first public buildings constructed using CLT panels and glued laminated timber, Ogre Central Library places particular emphasis on energy efficiency, environmentally responsible materials, and the creation of an open public space.

The building follows passive-house principles and incorporates a range of modern engineering solutions designed to reduce energy consumption. In 2022, the library received the Grand Prix at the “Latvijas Būvniecības gada balva 2021” (Latvian Construction of the Year Award 2021).

Pērle Support Centre in Cēsis (2021)

Architecture studios ĒTER and Rīgers created more than just a social care facility—they designed a warm and welcoming space for people with special needs.

The single-storey building, sheltered beneath a large pitched roof, brings together workshops, therapy areas, and communal spaces. Wood, natural light, and a close connection to the surrounding landscape create a calm, human-centred environment. The project received the top prize at the Latvian Architecture Award 2022.

Latvijas Valsts Meži Regional Office in Dundaga (2016)

Designed by architecture studio 5.IELA, this project demonstrates that wood can serve not only as an attractive finishing material but also as the structural basis of a contemporary building. The light-filled, two-storey office, with its large glazed façades and timber cladding, has a distinctly modern and lightweight appearance.

Saulkrasti Open-Air Stage

The open-air stage in Neibāde Park has existed for almost a century and has long served as a venue for local celebrations, concerts, and theatre performances. During its reconstruction, the architects deliberately moved away from the idea of creating a dominant architectural object. Instead, the new stage and amphitheatre were carefully integrated into the surrounding pine forest.

Both the supporting structures and cladding are made of timber, allowing the stage to feel like a natural extension of the woodland. The project makes use of wood’s warm texture and its ability to blend harmoniously into the surrounding landscape.