Ziedlejas Latvian Nature Spa and Wellness Resort

This summer saw the opening of three overnight cabins at Ziedlejas wellness resort in rural Latvia. The corten steel and glass cabins are positioned on a hillside to ensure “full screen” views of the landscape outside, encourage mindfulness and a strong sense of connection to nature. Inspired by the tiny living movement and Japanese ways, the cabins are compact yet plentiful. Inherently adaptable, by day they provide space to enjoy herbal tea. At night they provide comfortable accommodation. We designed bespoke furniture - a table that “pops up” from the floor, a foldaway double bed and mezzanine level sleeping space. Each cabin also has its private bathroom, inside the secluded corten steel section. The landscape around the cabins is not only aesthetic but also practical. Here, staff grow the herbs needed for use in tea, sauna rituals and decorations. Our choice of materials - wood, linen, metal - was guided by the fundamental concept of the resort. To keep Latvian traditions alive yet translate them for the 21st century. To remind visitors of the humble roots of our ancestors and the power they gained from nature. Before the opening of the cabins, guests came to the resort purely to indulge in Latvian sauna rituals. With the new opportunity to stay overnight, guests can extend their relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Staff are trained to explain local heritage such as the properties of each herb in the tea blend. The saunas remain true to tradition in terms of purpose, however, Open AD enhanced their aesthetics and functionality. For example, the Glass Sauna is accessible to persons with reduced mobility. Project name: Ziedlejas Latvian nature spa and wellness resort Company name: Open AD Website: Contact: info@openad. lv Project location: Krimulda parish, Latvia Completetion year: cabins – 2020, resort – ongoing Design and architecture team: Zane Tetere – Sulce (lead architect), Dace Bula, Zane Legzdina, Beatrise Dzerve, Alvis Petrovskis, Eva Heidingere – Jukama Landscape architecture: Girts Runis (Landshape)