These twin residences in Riga, Latvia, mirror one another exactly, except that one is clad in timber and the other in blackened steel.

The conjoined two-storey homes are collectively named House on Zaru Street and were designed by Latvian architects Open AD.

Two rectangular box-frames surround each house, overhanging to shelter terraces at either end and balconies at the rear.

Recessed glass channels wrap around the building to divide it into quarters, providing entrances, windows and additional balconies.

Both houses contain open-plan living areas on the ground floor and two en-suite bedrooms above.

This is the second house by Open AD featured on Dezeen within a week - see also a house and terrace surrounded by metallic grey beams.

Photography is by Maris Lagzdins.

Here's some more information from the architects:

House on Zaru street

By its structure the house is twin-house, in which lives two different persons, so both facades are developed in different materials- one is made in greyish vetical wood, other- in black metal.

The closing terrace components of the house are solved identical- in black wood, which visually is merging the building in one extent.

Side facades are dividend by vertical accent which is side entrance and balcony on second floor.

Each part of house is about 160 sq.m, which are functionally well- considered.

On first floor there is one spacious room with living, dining and kitchen area.

In connective part is common entrace hall, facilities, and heating room.

On second floor are two bedrooms, each with its own facilites, and wardrobe.

Zaru street 12, Riga.
Year: 2007-2009

Project, realization: architect Zane Tetere, Open AD

Interior: architect Zane Tetere, participating M. Petersons

Landscape architect: Linda Zala.

Sketches: architect Andis Silis "SZK"