21 Mar 2017
Daniel Libeskind vows to build '24/7 public space for the Baltic states' with Vilnius tower plan
BY Kim Megson
Studio Libeskind have revealed new design details for their dramatic mixed-use tower on the banks of the River Neris in Vilnius, Lithuania; pledging to create “a sustainable 24/7 public space for the Baltic states.”
The practice, headed by architect Daniel Libeskind, revealed that public realm will be created around the 18-storey, 200,000sq m (215,000sq ft) k18b tower, as well as being integrated into its internal spaces.
The focal point of the €40m (US$43m, £34.6m) development will be a 30m high atrium open to public on the ground floors of the building, which will serve as a continuation of the underground crossing for Konstitucijos avenue, where the tower will stand.
This public space will provide easier access to the both sides of the avenue, and will host public events, concerts and exhibitions.
Other open spaces at the base of the building include a restaurant, bar and retail zone, as well as a Raddison Red hotel.
The floors above will be used as office space. The Lords LB Asset Management investment management company, which owns the building, wants k18b to host international companies looking for new spaces for their offices in the continental Europe following Brexit.
The angular glass tower has been designed to reflect the light, sky and surroundings with a play of transparent and opaque surfaces. Speaking last year, following his win in the project’s design competition, Libeskind said the idea “is to create a 21st-century landmark, while integrating the surrounding context to complement the urban fabric of the historic city.”
His studio have found Lithuania a receptive destination for their designs. Their other projects in the country include the new Modern Art Centre of Vilnius and a sports and wellness centre called Vilnius Beacon.
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