Set in the former St. George’s Church on Skārņu iela in central Rīga, this museum brings Latvian decorative arts and design together with a historic church interior. Its permanent displays span work from the late 19th century to the present, including textiles, ceramics, porcelain, wood and leather, while temporary exhibitions use the former prayer hall. Look for the preserved wooden posts and intermediate floors, and check whether the textile displays or interactive activities are available during your visit. The collection is compact, so you can explore without setting aside a full afternoon.
A museum inside a former church
The Museum of Decorative Arts and Design occupies the former St. George’s Church, a historic building in Rīga. The museum opened in 1989. Its setting is part of the visit: preserved wooden posts and intermediate floors can be seen on the upper levels, while the former prayer hall is used for temporary exhibitions.
The exhibition spaces are arranged across three floors. Short-term exhibitions are on the first floor; permanent displays occupy the second and third. This layout lets you see changing work in the church’s former prayer space before moving upstairs to the collection.
Latvian design across materials and periods
The permanent collection presents Latvian decorative arts and design from the late 19th century to the present. It includes textiles, ceramics, porcelain, wood and leather, among other materials. The displays give a sense of how artists’ work and design styles changed across different periods, from crafted objects to more contemporary pieces.
Textiles are a particular focus for some visitors, and woven work may also appear in temporary exhibitions. Displays can include multimedia elements that provide context for the objects. Because the permanent collection is compact, you can take time with individual works without planning a long museum visit.
Planning a short visit
A relaxed look around the permanent and temporary exhibitions takes less than an hour. The museum is at Skārņu iela 10, in central Rīga. If you are visiting with children, the museum has a children’s design studio with activities related to ceramics, kinetics, poster design and weaving; check what is available during your visit.
Student and school identification may qualify you for reduced admission. The museum has an audio guide in Latvian, English and Russian on the second floor. Staff are present in the exhibition rooms, so follow their directions around the artworks. Check the museum’s official website for current exhibitions and visit details.
FAQ
Where is the Museum of Decorative Arts and Design?
It is at Skārņu iela 10 in central Rīga, in the former St. George’s Church.
What can you see at the museum?
The permanent displays cover Latvian decorative arts and design from the late 19th century to the present, including textiles, ceramics, porcelain, wood and leather. Temporary exhibitions are held in the former prayer hall.
How long do you need at the museum?
A leisurely visit to the permanent and temporary displays takes less than an hour.
Is there an audio guide?
Yes. An audio guide is available on the second floor in Latvian, English and Russian.
