The Mango Vinyl Hub is an architectural project located in Cesis, Latvia, designed to serve as both a vinyl factory and a community center. The project aims to foster creativity and collaborative opportunities among local artists and musicians while providing a functional workspace for vinyl production. The design seamlessly integrates production and community engagement, representing a modern response to the needs of both industry and society.

The architectural layout comprises three primary levels. The first floor houses the operational areas of the vinyl factory, including loading docks and retail spaces. This floor is designed to facilitate efficient workflow, ensuring that production processes can operate smoothly while allowing interaction with customers. The inclusion of large windows and open areas promotes transparency, inviting the public to engage with the production environment.

The second floor is dedicated to co-working spaces and recording studios, providing versatile environments for creators. These areas are designed to encourage collaboration and innovation among users, with flexible layouts and a variety of meeting spaces. The connection to the factory below is maintained through strategic sightlines and accessibility, fostering a sense of community across both levels.

The rooftop serves a distinctive purpose, functioning as a performance and gathering space. This area enhances the architectural experience by providing opportunities for public events and social interactions, establishing a direct link between the hub's functions and the community it serves.

Unique Design Features and Materials

One notable aspect of the Mango Vinyl Hub is its external steel staircase, which connects various sections of the complex. This design element not only serves a practical function but also contributes to the project's visual identity, emphasizing connectivity within the architectural layout. The interplay of materials is also significant; steel’s modern aesthetic contrasts with traditional brick, creating an engaging dialogue between old and new.

Material choices are deliberate, focusing on steel, glass, concrete, and wood. Steel is used structurally and in the staircase, offering durability and a contemporary feel. Large glass panels allow natural light to penetrate deep into the interiors, enhancing the workspace's ambiance while maintaining visual connections to the surroundings. Concrete provides a strong foundation, while wooden finishes introduce warmth and comfort to communal areas.

Sustainable practices are integral to the design, with green spaces incorporated into the site. These areas not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also contribute to ecological functions, such as managing stormwater and promoting biodiversity.

Functional Spaces and Community Integration

The layout and design of the Mango Vinyl Hub prioritize community engagement, establishing a dynamic environment for artistic expression and social interaction. Key facilities include the retail space on the first floor, which invites public access to the vinyl production process, and the co-working areas that cater to various artistic ventures. This duality of purpose exemplifies a forward-thinking design that recognizes the importance of blending industrial and social functions.

The project encourages exploration and creativity, positioning itself as a vital resource for Cesis. By examining the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, readers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the project's intent and the architectural ideas that underpin its development.

For an in-depth look at this architectural undertaking and its distinctive features, explore the project presentation further, focusing on the architectural plans and design elements that highlight its innovative approach to integrating industry and community.