The government of Lithuania’s capital Vilnius, backed by private investors, commissioned Daniel Libeskind to design a new recreational center on the city’s highest point, ArchDaily reports.
Vilnius Beacon will be located at the base of Liepkalnis Ski Hill, between the city's historic center, business district, and airport. The center will be a hub for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities in the area. The project is part of the government's efforts to transform the city into the cultural and economic center of the Baltic region.
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2015, and be completed in 2016.
“The Beacon is inspired by the natural beauty of the Lithuanian landscape,” Libeskind explained on his website. “The design is a study in contrasting geometries. At the core of the master plan is a circular plaza that encompasses the open arena/sports center, sited along the periphery are the two main structures, and a zig-zagging canopy spirals around the site creating a dramatic architectural experience, as well as creating a protected pathway between the main areas of the center.”
More from the architect:
The main entrance building appears to rise from the ground on a tilt, with a sloping roofline and sinuous facade that will frame the central arena. Inside, visitors will encounter a large open-air plan that will house the ticket and rental areas as well as retail and public amenities.
Across the site to the northeast, the main lodge is set into the hill side, with a curved roof that is an extension of the natural landscape. The three-storey building will grant stunning panoramic views to the city below. On the ground floor an open lobby includes the Regional Park Information Center, and a multipurpose space to be used for events and conferences year round.
On the first floor there is a bistro for casual dining with an open terrace that provides direct access to the east slope. On the top floor, a gourmet restaurant with wrap around windows will give diners spectacular views of the city and beyond.
Related Stories
Laboratories | Apr 13, 2017
How to design transformative scientific spaces? Put people first
While most labs are designed to achieve that basic functionality, a transformational lab environment prioritizes a science organization’s most valuable assets: its people.
Hotel Facilities | Apr 12, 2017
Hotels embrace place
Today’s hospitality environments emphasize unique, localized experiences to attract and engage guests.
Green | Apr 11, 2017
Passivhaus for high-rises? Research demonstrates viability of the stringent standards for tall residential buildings
A new study conducted by FXFOWLE shows that Building Teams can meet stringent Passivhaus performance standards with minimal impact to first cost and aesthetics.
Curtain Wall | Apr 11, 2017
Masters of geometry
Three firms that specialize in façades that curve, twist, and turn see themselves as artisans of the unthinkable.
Office Buildings | Apr 10, 2017
Innovation lab makes developing eye care solutions a collaborative affair
The Shop East innovation lab presents 13,500 sf of workspace across two floors with an emphasis on collaboration.
Architects | Apr 10, 2017
New Bjarke Ingels documentary gives a peek behind the curtain
The movie takes a slightly darker tone than previous projects chronicling the starchitect’s rise to prominence.
Architects | Apr 4, 2017
Architect Howard Elkus dies at 78
Cofounder of Elkus Manfredi Architects, his career spanned five decades, and included a spectrum of major design projects.
Building Team | Apr 4, 2017
Dispelling five myths about post-occupancy evaluations
Many assume that post-occupancy (POE) is a clearly-defined term and concept, but the meaning of POE in practice remains wildly inconsistent.
Structural Materials | Apr 3, 2017
Best of structural steel construction: 4WTC, Fulton Center, Pterodactyl win AISC IDEAS2 Awards
The annual awards program, sponsored by the American Institute of Steel Construction, honors the best in structural steel design and construction.