SENSE OF THE MARCH BY MARITA SĪMANE

My feeling for this month is one of dynamism, movement and positive transformation as a continuous process. Spring, I believe, exists to remind everyone that there is a new beginning. Everyone is bustling, the colours are coming out, the sun is shining, not only the greenery is blooming but also the smiles on people's faces. It is a really nice feeling and a time for new inspirations, ideas and projects!

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What is the first thing you think about when you start working on a new project?

Each project is unique in terms of the character of the space/location, the function required and the user, their wants and needs. It is therefore important to understand and "feel" the interplay of these components from the beginning to ensure a functionally appropriate, visually appealing end result that will satisfy both the user and the designer.

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What is an interior incomplete without?

I think the principle that we design for the user should be the most important, because an interior is incomplete and "alive" without the person for whom it is intended. However, the space itself, its character and functionality, the perceived layout and accessibility are also important. It's a never-ending cycle - space - functionality - user - these are the most important substances to be observed in the framework of the whole project in order to create a viable and complete interior!

If you've managed to do that - bravo!

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The most loved stage of the project?

Each stage of the project has its own "charm". From the exchange of ideas with the client at the beginning, to the last hook being screwed into place. Each project and each stage can be an opportunity to learn and learn something new for both the client and the designer - to discover new products and materials, to find solutions to unforeseen situations during the construction phases, and finally to see the finished result come to life.

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What are some of the other areas you draw inspiration from?

The big sources of inspiration are art, scenography and temporary architecture. And fashion is definitely an integral part of where I draw inspiration from on a daily basis.

In general, inspiration knows no boundaries, and sometimes even the mundane little things can provide rich and varied inspiration that shapes and enhances the creative process and can complement and enrich the interior design process.  

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What was the first thing that sparked your interest in architecture?

As a child I spent a lot of time on public transport going to/from sports training. I admired the existing architecture of Riga, but even then my heart "broke" for abandoned buildings. I still remember the moment when I realised I wanted to be an architect - driving along Ezermalas Street towards Mezaparks, there was the former Linen and Jute Manufactory. Even then it was not in the best technical and visual condition, but it captured my heart with its architectural volume, construction details, decorative elements, and one thing was clear: it would be wonderful to restore it, giving it a necessary function for the city, and maybe I could do that in my life too!

I believe that this type of building is a unique and irreplaceable historical testimony of the city, which I think should be preserved. The principles of sustainable urbanism are much more effectively realised through the use of existing resources and infrastructure, in this situation by renovating existing, disused buildings that have lost their functionality in the urban context.

This is the philosophy that I have been aiming for since 6th grade.

I still have a reverence and love for historic architecture, I always enjoy objects in historic buildings, and I'm a big fan of estates.

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