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
Architects | Nov 19, 2015
Book helps prevent new architecture students from making common mistakes
Written by Iain Jackson, "The Architecture School Survival Guide" covers both broad designing ideas and specific architecture tips.
Architects | Nov 18, 2015
AIA: Demand for design services still up for the year
October's ABI score was 53.1, down slightly from the mark of 53.7 in September. This still reflects an increase in design services, as any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings.
Architects | Nov 16, 2015
Croatia's 'sea organ' lets the ocean make music
Visitors to the shores of the Adriatic Sea in Zadar, Croatia, can hear the sounds of the ocean in an entirely different way. There, when the waves hit the coast, they make music—literally.
Architects | Nov 16, 2015
Perkins Eastman, ForrestPerkins combine practices
The combined international firm will total almost 1,000 employees.
Architects | Nov 10, 2015
AIA releases nine new contract documents
Include six new forms for design-build projects.
Architects | Nov 9, 2015
Perkins+Will acquires London-based Portland Design Associates
The firms will work together to offer “future-proofing” insights to clients.
Architects | Nov 6, 2015
Hungary’s A4 Studio Wins World Architecture Community Award using ARCHICAD
Inspired by the suspended, community-designed shading structures seen on traditional Moroccan marketplaces, the Casablanca Market in Morocco allows traffic to flow through the arcade-like marketplace.
Healthcare Facilities | Nov 4, 2015
Hospital designers get the scoop on the role of innovation in healthcare
“Innovation” was the byword as 175 healthcare designers gathered in Chicago for the American College of Healthcare Architects/AIA Academy of Architecture for Health Summer Leadership Summit.
Office Buildings | Nov 3, 2015
Emotional intelligence and design
In a world in which technology and its skills are constantly changing, good people skills are becoming more important, writes VOA's Angie Lee.
Architects | Nov 2, 2015
NCARB: Interactive tool helps architects prep for exam
The Transition Calculator for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) will help licensure candidates transition from ARE 4.0 to ARE 5.0.