This week, the annual conference “RIXARCH 2025” will bring together specialists from around the world
On 27 March, the Latvian National Library will host the third international architectural design conference, RIXARCH 2025. The conference is organised by the Latvian National Library and the Faculty of Architecture and Design at RISEBA University. This year’s conference is dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the renowned Latvian architect Gunnar Birkerts, with the theme – “LIGHT MATTERS”.
Light holds both symbolic and functional significance in architecture and design. At RIXARCH 2025, industry professionals, students, and architecture enthusiasts will discuss its role not only in building design but also in urban planning, with a particular focus on the influence of Nordic architectural masters and Gunnar Birkerts’ legacy.
On 27 March, the Latvian National Library will host lectures by outstanding experts in the field. The conference will feature leading architects and lighting design specialists from around the world, including:
- Martin Schwartz (USA) – architect and lecturer specialising in daylight in architecture, author of the book Gunnar Birkerts, Metaphoric Modernist.
- Per Olaf Fjeld (Norway) – professor and author of books on architectural thinking, collaborator of Louis Kahn and Sverre Fehn.
- Oskar Storm (Sweden) – glass industry expert with extensive experience in designing innovative facades.
- Giulio Camiz (Italy) – specialist at VELUX Italia, researching the interaction between architecture and daylight.
- Dirk Jan Postel (Netherlands) – internationally recognised architect, known for sustainable architectural projects.
On 27 March at 16.45, the panel discussion “LIGHT MATTERS” will take place-serving as both the concluding event of the first day of the RIXARCH 2025 conference and its central highlight. The discussion will explore the relationship between light and architecture and its impact on modern urban planning. Participants will include:
- Dmitrijs Astašonoks (VELUX Baltics) – Managing Director
- Pēteris Ratas (Riga City Development Department) – Architect
- Dirk Jan Postel (DJPA) – Architect
- Laurynas Zdanavičius (SIA Gaismas Stils) – Chairman of the Board
- The discussion will be moderated by Dina Suhanova (Latvian Academy of Art) and Martin Schwartz (Lawrence Technology University).
Conference participants—architectural and design professionals—can earn 4.8 credit points upon prior registration and payment of the participation fee. Other attendees can attend for free with prior registration here.
The full conference programme is available on the website: https://www.rixarchconference.com/
The conference is organised by the Latvian National Library and the Faculty of Architecture and Design at RISEBA University. The general sponsor of the conference is VELUX.