St. John Paul II Church and Pastoral Center in Vilnius

The design for the St. John Paul II Church and Pastoral Center in Vilnius, located in the Pašilaičiai district, was conceived not just as a standalone building but as an integrated part of the existing urban fabric. The site’s concept was heavily influenced by the strict, perpendicular grid of the neighborhood, and the adjacent St. Joseph's School, built in 2019, was treated as a visual backdrop, defining the boundaries of the complex. A primary goal was to create a highly functional, multi-purpose space under one roof, housing a church, a pastoral center, and various community facilities like a cafe, library, and social support center. The design strategically lifts a portion of the building off the ground, creating a welcoming, open passage for pedestrians and ensuring all interior spaces are connected. This elevated structure provides a peaceful, secluded worship space while also symbolizing a departure from earthly concerns. The church's upper section is a composition of two subtly tapered, interlocking volumes, culminating in a prominent cross that anchors the entire design. We aimed to create a typologically recognizable church, distinct from its surroundings, yet harmoniously integrated. Inside, abstract stained-glass windows will provide a modern texture and enhance the building's identity, especially when illuminated. This project exemplifies a seamless blend of compositional and functional elements, from shared parking with the school to creating a new community hub. Ultimately, the design transforms the site into a central point for the community, with pedestrian pathways converging at the church to emphasize its significance.