The modern event landscape demands spaces that offer more than just four walls and a projector. Clients today seek environments that inspire and engage. They are looking for locations that elevate the significance of their gathering whether it is a high stakes corporate meeting or an intimate private celebration. The Sky Point venue located on the 27th floor of the Radisson Blu Hotel Latvia was designed to meet this demand. Our studio Barbara Bula Arhitekti was tasked with transforming this 200 square meter space into a flexible and sophisticated destination. The result is a multifunctional venue where the panoramic view of Riga becomes an integral part of the interior design, creating a memorable setting for any occasion.
A Concept Driven by the View
The defining feature of Sky Point is undoubtedly its location. Situated high above the city streets on Elizabetes Street the venue offers breathtaking views across the rooftops of Riga. Our primary design objective was to frame and celebrate this visual asset. We wanted the city to feel present in the room.
To achieve this we kept the perimeter of the space open and uncluttered. The large floor to ceiling windows act as dynamic canvases that display the changing light and weather of the city. During the day the room is flooded with natural daylight which energizes meetings and conferences. In the evening the twinkling lights of the city create a magical backdrop for dinners and receptions. The connection to the exterior is so strong that we treated the interior finishes as a subtle frame rather than a competing element. We utilized neutral tones and clean lines to ensure that the focus remains on the stunning vista outside.
Flexibility as a Core Function
A multifunctional venue must be a like a chameleon. It needs to adapt seamlessly to a wide variety of layouts and functions. One day it might host a boardroom meeting for twenty executives. The next evening it might be the setting for a cocktail reception for a hundred guests. This requirement for adaptability drove every decision in our interior design process.
We developed a layout that is free of fixed obstacles. The furniture selection was critical to this strategy. We chose tables and chairs that are elegant enough for a formal dinner but durable and functional enough for a business conference. The tables can be configured in a U shape or classroom style, or banquet rounds depending on the needs of the client. This flexibility allows the hotel operations team to transform the room quickly and efficiently maximizing the utility of the space.
The lighting system is also designed for versatility. We incorporated a combination of functional task lighting and atmospheric mood lighting. The ceiling features large circular recessed coves with integrated lighting. These architectural elements add a sense of softness to the ceiling plane and provide general illumination. Additionally we installed adjustable spotlights on tracks which allow for the highlighting of specific areas such as a speaker podium or a buffet station. The ability to dim the lights and change the color temperature allows the mood of the room to shift from bright and professional to warm and intimate at the touch of a button.
Materiality and Texture
While the view is the star, the interior materials provide a necessary sense of grounding and comfort. We wanted the space to feel warm and welcoming despite its modern glass envelope. To achieve this we utilized a palette of rich and tactile materials.
One of the key features is the wood paneling on the walls. We used a warm walnut veneer to clad sections of the walls. This natural material adds a sense of solidity and luxury to the space. It contrasts beautifully with the cool glass of the windows and the sleek surfaces of the furniture. The wood also serves an acoustic function, helping to dampen sound and improve speech intelligibility during meetings.
The flooring is a high quality carpet with a custom pattern. The design features swirling organic lines in shades of grey and silver. This pattern adds movement and energy to the floor plane without being overwhelming. It also helps to hide wear and tear in a high traffic environment. The carpet provides acoustic absorption which is essential in a room with so many hard surfaces.
Integrating Technology and Service
In a modern meeting venue technology must be omnipresent but invisible. We worked closely with the technical consultants to ensure that the audiovisual equipment was integrated seamlessly into the design. The screens and projectors are recessed into the ceiling or hidden behind panels when not in use. The sound system is discreetly distributed throughout the room to ensure even coverage.
Service is another critical component of the hospitality design. The venue includes a dedicated area for food and beverage service. We designed a buffet station that is both functional and stylish. It features a stone countertop and wood front that matches the wall paneling. This station can be used for coffee breaks or lunch buffets, or evening cocktails. The flow of the room allows for efficient service without disrupting the main event.
A Collaborative Effort
The successful realization of Sky Point in 2015 was a result of a close collaboration between our team and the client. Barbara Bula and Jūlija Skobelkina led the design process working hand in hand with the Hotel Radisson Blu Latvia management.
We understood that the hotel needed a premium product to compete in the MICE (Meetings Incentives Conferences and Exhibitions) market. Our design response was to create a space that feels exclusive and high end. We paid attention to every detail from the door handles to the window treatments to ensure a consistent level of quality. The result is a venue that the hotel is proud to offer to its most discerning clients.
Professional Insight
From a real estate and hospitality perspective a view is a significant value driver. However a view alone is not enough. It must be supported by a comfortable and functional interior. Barbara Bula Arhitekti work at Sky Point demonstrates how interior design can leverage a location to create a unique selling proposition.
By keeping the design restrained and elegant we allow the view to do the heavy lifting. This approach creates a sense of luxury that feels effortless. Guests feel privileged to be in the space. This positive emotional response translates into higher client satisfaction and repeat business for the hotel.