OUR STORY
Here at KOKI
everything is genuine.
KOKI Village is the embodiment of Edgars Neilands’ personal vision and philosophy of life, and it continues to evolve, His appreciation of outdoor spaces and understanding of their value have been shaped since childhood rooted in the Neilands family, where nature, aesthetics and architectural form have always been held in high regard.
Together with his wife Elīna Neilande, Edgars has built a large and close-knit family with five children: – Kārlis, Anna, Jēkabs, Jānis un Māra. Their presence can be felt throughout the village, from the playgrounds to the buildings named after them reflecting the belief that everything created here is intended for future generations.
Our Roots
Edgars gained his first gardening experience and took his first professional steps in Norway, where LABIE KOKI began while he was working alongside other Latvians. After returning to Latvia, he continued to develop the company with purpose and began transforming the area that is now KOKI Village.
It was developed not only as the home and base of LABIE KOKI, but also as a spacious educational environment where anyone can learn about a wide range of subjects connected with nature.
KOKI Village stands on a site with a long history, once part of the former Annas auxiliary manor dating back to the 13th century. More than 16 years ago, when the LABIE KOKI team began working here, the historic church was the only surviving building and the oldest structure on the site. Its architectural style became the inspiration for the village buildings that we later designed and built ourselves.
When building Annas Koku Skola, and later all the other buildings in the village, we chose an architectural language that does not seek to stand apart, but instead enters into dialogue with this ancient neighbour. This gave rise to modern public timber buildings that honour the past while serving the future. Today, across this 15 hectare site, we have created KOKI Village, the first circular economy village in Latvia.
European oak
Quercus robur
“People are the heart and soul of the village.”
Like finds like
Edgars Neilands is the magnet who has brought together people who share his way of thinking. As the saying goes, “Like finds like.” Our community includes gardeners, arborists, landscape architects and tree experts. Each of them has helped shape the village into what you see today.
Although LABIE KOKI has grown over the years and our craftsmen now spend their days caring for clients’ properties across Latvia and beyond, we never forget our roots.
We have a long standing and cherished tradition. Every April, on the anniversary of LABIE KOKI the whole team comes together for a day of communal work in the village. This is our home, and we care for it with the same dedication that we bring to our clients.
Here, trees live alongside people, and the beauty of nature blends with what people have created. We give new life to everything old, creating a unique story that inspires us to live with greater care for nature.
Our Philosophy – Learning from Trees
At the heart of KOKI Village is a belief in the harmonious coexistence of people and nature. We believe that we must learn to live according to nature’s rhythms rather than try to control them.
Trees: Our Teachers
We believe that trees are nature’s greatest teachers. They teach us patience, resilience and the ability to give. One of our core principles is to leave a little more for future generations than there was before: to plant more than we consume, to educate others and to create lasting value.
Life in the Cycle
We believe that nothing in nature truly ends; it simply changes form. This understanding helps us use resources wisely. When a tree reaches the end of its life in the garden, its story continues in our workshop.
The Trees Live On
We honour the material by transforming it into beautifully crafted furniture and playgrounds, preserving the energy of the wood and giving it a new life within the ecosystem of our village.
Seasonal Rhythms
We do not try to rush the process. Just as the quiet of winter in the garden gives way to creative work in the workshop, everything we do is part of a greater natural cycle. This is our way of living in harmony with time and the environment.
Scots pine
Pinus sylvestris
KOKI: Where Life Comes Full Circle
What We Do
KOKI Professionals
Through landscape architecture, gardening and arboriculture, we create beautiful environments where people feel happier and kinder. LABIE KOKI provides professional tree care, landscape design and garden development services for homes, businesses and municipalities.
KOKI Celebrates
Across the village grounds and buildings, we celebrate life and invite you to do the same. From romantic weddings and family celebrations to large corporate events, our unique spaces and beautifully maintained surroundings give every occasion an unforgettable atmosphere close to nature.
KOKI Learn
At KOKI Village, we share knowledge and experience through practical seminars, conferences, educational tours and research projects, often involving international experts. We bring together several fields, including arboriculture, landscape architecture, gardening and environmental science. Nature enthusiasts of all levels are welcome to learn with us.
KOKI Adventures
KOKI Village is an open and welcoming place for anyone seeking a break from the rush of city life. Discover the village in a way that suits you. Join an engaging guided tour, or explore the park at your own pace by scanning the QR codes and listening to the story of KOKI Village.
