Zaha Hadid Architects has been announced as the winner of the international competition to design the new arrivals terminal at Vilnius Airport in Lithuania. The terminal is part of the airport’s long-term development strategy to accommodate up to 10.6 million passengers annually and enhance Lithuania’s role as a key gateway in the Baltic region.
The winning design draws inspiration from Lithuania’s cultural heritage, integrating traditional motifs within a contemporary architectural language. The terminal’s modular geometry is inspired by the rhombus, derived from triangular forms deeply rooted in Baltic folklore. The design prioritizes intuitive wayfinding, with natural light and views towards the city guiding passenger flows.
The terminal will contribute to the creation of a multi-modal transport hub at Airport Plaza, integrating with the planned Rail Baltica high-speed rail station and various transportation networks. Internally, the design references traditional Lithuanian straw gardens, with a pleated timber roof and rhomboid skylights introducing natural light.
The terminal targets an ‘Excellent’ Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) rating, employing passive strategies to mitigate heat gain and encourage winter heat retention. The design includes double-insulated glazing, hybrid natural ventilation, and smart building systems to support energy efficiency.
Image Courtesy: archdaily.com
