OFFICE PARK GIRAITES ST.3

COMPETITION PROJECT

Conception

Horizontal solid silhouettes are characteristic for the surrounding townscape. The perspectives of fading hills are almost intact here and they are vital for the atmosphere of this part of the town. Therefore we propose the silhouette of the building that is resuming the inherent components of composition of the surroundings. We understand the office park primarily as landscape object rather than just a group of buildings. We propose safe, sunny, quiet and green inner court that would connect people and become the distinctive mark of the project. We believe in the added value of integration of old and new, therefore we propose to reconstruct the existing building.

Urban composition

We design a clear urban block/corner as an initiation of future development of this bank of Neris River. In terms of scale and character, the new block would be akin to the neighboring elements of the townscape: the bridge, power station, hills and the river.

Architectural expression

The park with the red brick building is surrounded by semicircle of metal and glass band. Contrasting materials of the two volumes are enhancing each other’s qualities. The old and the new buildings are united via their horizontal character, proportion of the cross-section, shared axis of pedestrian flows. The inner yard – combination of small lots with different materials and function – and exploitable roof aesthetically unite the entire complex. Greenery and sloping terraces on the roof camouflage the technical equipment and help to create a lightly flickering silhouette of the new building that blends into the natural horizon.

Sustainability

This proposal enables for BREEAM certification. We also propose other sustainable human and nature –related measures: – Safe, light, soundproofed communal inner court, closed by natural slope with trees and allowing work and relaxation in fresh air. – Continuity: Inner space of the existing building adjusted to match the changing needs.

VKP building

We propose to renovate the existing building following these principles: The volumetric composition of the building is preserved as valuable Outside elements are restored in original shape and materials Inside space is reconstructed to match the needs of unconventional contemporary offices. Inside the shell of existing building we propose: five office spaces of about 500 m2 with ability to join or separate them, independent conference block and sport club. Before any changes are made to the building, the permission from the author would be required. Preservation of architecturally valuable building would send a positive message to the public and would supply more varied office space.

Functionality of architectural plans

Effective, open and easily reshapable layout. Optimal width of the building allows for the two-sided natural insulation and views. Modular façade system ensures proper balance between light and shadow as well as rational placement of operable windows. Car park can be reached via the inner court or through the roof paths. Pedestrian access is oriented towards the bus stop and separated from car access to parking area. Drop-off lots are proposed outside the street – facing entrances. The technical backyard is proposed in the most isolated place of the plot. We propose a beach with terrace on the Neris.