Sansusī, established in 2013 at the former parish house of Susēja, is a music festival focused on classical and contemporary chamber music. Located in Aknīste parish, the festival features an open-air setup that allows audiences to move between performances. This unique event combines different forms of contemporary performing arts, such as circus, dance, and theatre, highlighting a spirit of exploration and experimentation. The designed food court, known as the Courts of Māra, reflects this philosophy through its flexible structure, catering to various performances and engaging audience experiences.

Modular Design Concept

The Courts of Māra employs a modular design, which allows the structure to adjust based on the number of people attending and the type of performance. This flexibility offers different configurations, from small quartets to large orchestras. A simple truss system forms the backbone of the structure, creating spaces that frame the performance area and encourage interaction between audience members and artists. Each setup smoothly transitions to meet the diverse activities of the festival, fostering an inviting and engaging atmosphere.

Geographical Context

The food court takes advantage of its unique setting, surrounded by dense woods and farmland. The area is marked by the presence of Latvian Birch, contributing to an expansive and open feeling. This natural backdrop helps enhance the festival's themes of exploration and temporality. The architecture is designed to blend with the environment, promoting a strong connection between the built space and nature, which enriches the experience for those involved.

Structural Elements

The foundation consists of a radial arrangement of concrete blocks that provide a solid base and prevent moisture issues that could weaken the structure over time. The main frame is made of lumber pieces, linked together with angle brackets positioned according to open sockets in the concrete bases. Diagonal bracings are added for added strength, shaping the canopy roof while connecting the design to traditional Latvian symbols. Attention to these details not only supports the functionality of the space but also roots it in local culture.

Dynamic Configurations

The layout of the food court is designed to adapt to various vendor and audience needs. It features distinct areas for serving food and providing seating, following the shape of a dome. This arrangement creates a trellis that provides shelter from weather while encouraging audience participation. The adaptable design supports different seating arrangements, allowing for multiple events to happen simultaneously and enhancing the overall lively atmosphere of the festival.

Integrated within the design are careful touches that reflect Latvian cultural heritage, with the canopy roof symbolically connecting to national themes.