Today I set out early to follow the trail of the art nouveau architecture for which Riga is famous. It was awarded UNESCO status for its rich heritage of the genre. During the period 1860 to WW1 Riga experienced a period of unprecedented economic growth. This resulted in rapid expansion. New business were founded and the increases population needed housing. Several local architects answered the call.
As I wandered I was amazed at the eclectic styles deployed. Some take an indigenous, rustic and romantic approach using a traditional vocabulary in new ways. Others were more traditionally nouveau in their use of tropes; women with flowing locks, sinuous natural lines, symbolic mythical creatures like sphinxes. Still others seem to use the new geometry favoured by the Secessionists. Verticals, simplicity and attenuation. I was reminded of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. I won’t have room for too many examples but you can imagine I had a fascinating time picking out amazing and inspiring details.
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