The next phase of the reconstruction and restoration project at the Great Guild, implemented by SJSC "State Real Estate" (SRE), is nearing completion. This phase focuses on improving the building’s energy efficiency. Meanwhile, reconstruction work in the Great Guild Hall is continuing, with construction of the stage, installation of acoustic panels and fitting out of the hall scheduled to begin by the end of the summer.
“The restoration of the Great Guild is a highly complex project, in which historical heritage must be reconciled with modern energy-efficiency standards and world-class acoustic requirements. By completing the energy-efficiency works, we are one step closer to creating a visually attractive and functionally suitable home for the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra, where art will bring people and different eras together,” says Jeļena Gavrilova, Member of the Management Board of SRE.
As part of the energy-efficiency improvement project, work has already been completed on the reconstruction of the building’s heating, ventilation and cooling systems, the restoration of windows and external doors, as well as roof insulation and replacement of the roofing. Work is continuing at the Great Guild on the installation of internal low-voltage networks, interior finishing and the construction of new partition walls, alongside the reconstruction of the Great Guild. Over the coming months, installation of the stage mechanisms is scheduled to begin, followed by the installation of acoustic panels and the fitting out of the hall with audience seating. The building is scheduled for full completion in spring 2027.
The Ministry of Economics has secured EUR 6.3 million in funding for the implementation of the energy-efficiency project from the European Union Recovery and Resilience Facility Plan, under Reform and Investment Direction 1.2, “Improving Energy Efficiency”. The remaining EUR 10.2 million required for the reconstruction and restoration of the building has been secured by the Ministry of Culture through the European Union Cohesion Policy Programme for 2021–2027, under Specific Support Objective 5.1.1: “Promotion the integrated social, economic and environmental development of local territories, as well as cultural heritage, tourism and security in urban functional areas”. A total investment of approximately EUR 17.04 million is planned for the development project at the Great Guild.
It was previously reported that SRE, in cooperation with the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra and the Ministry of Culture, had engaged experienced acoustics expert Jan-Inge Gustafson to develop new acoustic solutions for the Great Guild. The new solutions also provides the exposure of the Great Guild's end wall. In 1963, the building was ruined by a fire, after which extensive reconstruction of the Guild Hall took place under the direction of Modris Ģelzis. During those works, the end wall was concealed. It will now be restored and incorporated into the new acoustic design. If necessary, the wall can either be covered or left visible to concertgoers, allowing the acoustic environment to be adapted both for symphony orchestra performances and for the enjoyment of chamber music.
As part of the project, the Great Guild, a state-protected architectural monument of national significance, will be preserved and further developed. The history of the building is as rich and colourful as that of the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra, which calls it home. The reconstruction and restoration project includes plans to rebuild the Great Guild's stage, audience seating and ceiling structures, as well as implement measures to improve accessibility. The historic wooden windows and doors will be restored, and the roof will be insulated to improve the building’s energy efficiency.In addition, the building’s internal engineering networks will be upgraded, including water supply, heating, ventilation, electrical and low-voltage systems. Changes are also planned for the basement area, where the visitor toilets and cloakroom facilities will be reconstructed. Certain other rooms will be adapted to meet the needs of the administration and musicians.
About SRE
SJSC "State Real Estate" (SRE) is currently managing 69 projects with a total investment value of EUR 619.44 million. SRE provides professional real estate management and property maintenance services for 406 properties comprising buildings and structures. These include buildings with a total floor area of 968,000 m², as well as 613 hectares of land beneath buildings, and 3,063 land properties with a combined area of 878 hectares. The company was established in 1996, and its sole shareholder (100%) is the Ministry of Finance.
Additional information for the media:
SJSC "State Real Estate"
Corporate Communications and Sustainability Department
Tel.: +371 20235301
E-mail: komunikacija@vni.lv
(Translated with the help of DeepL Translate)
