Valmiera invests €2.06 million to continue converting boiler house into cultural space
The Valmiera municipality will spend €2.06 million to further transform a former boiler house into a contemporary art space called 'Kurtuve' and develop related programs over three years.
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Over the next three years, Valmiera will implement the project 'Kurtuve: Contemporary Culture for Everyone,' involving €2.06 million to continue the conversion of a former boiler house into the contemporary art space 'Kurtuve.' The interior will retain industrial architecture features, while the facade will respect the building's function and context. A key addition is a glass vestibule integrated around the historic chimney.
The renovation includes roof insulation, replacement of utilities and rainwater systems, ventilation with heat recovery, and acoustic solutions. All main functions will be on the first floor, where tactile guides and acoustic loops will assist people with functional impairments.
Three partner organizations are involved with their programs. The NGO 'Orbīta' will develop a residency program 'Prakse' in the former Strenči doctor's building, starting in July 2026. The first resident artist is Reinis Dzudzilo, who will work with patients and staff of the Strenči Psychoneurological Hospital. The 'Latvian Dance Information Centre' will run 'Dejas māja nāk' to improve access to contemporary dance, with monthly events starting July 28 featuring the internationally acclaimed Lithuanian performance 'Clap & Slap.' Meanwhile, the Valmiera Summer Theatre Festival program 'Kur? Tuvāk' from early 2027 will strengthen cultural professionals' capacity to work with children and youth in regional settings.
The municipality emphasizes accessibility—physical, emotional, and financial—with discounted tickets, free activities, and an accessibility consultant at all levels. The idea for the conversion originated during Valmiera's bid for the European Capital of Culture 2027 title. In 2022, the building became a temporary home for Valmiera Theatre. It has since gained international recognition, being a finalist for the New European Bauhaus Prize 2025 and receiving accolades at the Latvian Architecture and Design Awards.
Total project cost is €2,066,185, with the European Regional Development Fund covering up to €849,987.
