Summit – Kaunas Municipality Office and Public Space

Summit is a transformative architectural and urban design project situated in the historic heart of Kaunas, adjacent to the iconic Kaunas Castle and the confluence of the Nemunas and Neris rivers. This initiative reimagines an underutilized space, converting a large surface parking area into a vibrant public realm and establishing a new administrative building as a harmonious blend of history, nature, and contemporary civic life.

Revitalizing Urban Space and Enhancing Connectivity
The project begins with a strategic shift: underground parking frees up valuable surface area for dynamic public spaces. This move elevates the site's potential as a pivotal city center. Further boosting connectivity, a new pedestrian bridge to the north will seamlessly link the project to other parts of Kaunas, promoting increased accessibility and pedestrian flow.

A Seamless Blend of Public and Private
The design features an inviting ground floor for the administrative building, flowing directly into two distinct, interconnected public zones: an urban plaza and a more natural riverfront promenade.
- The Urban Plaza: Located above the underground parking, this plaza acts as a central hub, linking Kaunas Castle, the Old Town, the building entrance, and the new pedestrian bridge. It incorporates green spaces with shade trees to mitigate urban heat and a water feature. A summer pavilion will animate the space with various community activities and events, creating a dynamic, year-year-round public space.
- The Riverfront Promenade: This zone focuses on preserving and enhancing the natural landscape, promoting biodiversity, and offering a low-maintenance green space. Elevated walkways provide access even during floods, offering unique perspectives of the river and its dynamic character.

The Administrative Building: Openness and Timeless Design
The Project Summit administrative building embodies simplicity, elegance, and timeless design. Its architectural vision complements the historic and natural surroundings while boldly expressing openness and inclusivity. The project's motto, "Summit – Space for Everyone, View for All," is reflected in three main elements: a monumental triangular entrance that creates an inviting gateway; a spacious central atrium that serves as the bright heart of the building, facilitating orientation and fostering a sense of community; and a publicly accessible rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the river, castle, and city, designed as a versatile space for events and gatherings. The building’s form is deliberately restrained, with a pitched roof echoing local and Old Town architecture. Vertical facade elements create visual depth and texture, harmonizing with surrounding historic buildings, further integrating it into Kaunas' rich historical and cultural context.

Sustainable Construction and Future-Ready Design
The administrative building prioritizes durability, flexibility, and sustainability. Its reinforced concrete structure ensures stability and adaptable interior spaces. The facade, combining vertical ceramic elements with high-quality glass, provides visual dynamism and passive solar shading, reducing energy consumption. The roof is clad in the same material as the facade for a seamless look. Interior finishes emphasize warmth and modernity, with natural materials and acoustic solutions. The building integrates energy-efficient technologies like high-quality glazing, optimal insulation, and LED lighting with smart controls. Green solutions include rainwater harvesting, extensive landscaping, and green hills that help regulate temperature and improve stormwater management. Natural ventilation and a focus on daylight optimization ensure a healthy and comfortable indoor environment.

Flexible and Community-Focused Program
The building is designed as a multifunctional structure, seamlessly blending public and administrative functions with future adaptability. The underground parking provides efficient and convenient access. The ground floor is a vibrant public space featuring a reception, a multifunctional hall (accessible independently for events), and a restaurant (also with external access); these spaces are designed for flexibility, allowing for future commercial adaptations. The second and third floors house administrative functions and visitor services, designed with flexible layouts that can adapt to open-plan or private office configurations as needed. Finally, the rooftop terrace stands as the ultimate public amenity, offering a unique venue for events and relaxation with unparalleled views. Project Summit not only addresses current needs but also fosters a strong community connection, ensuring adaptability for future uses within Kaunas' rich urban fabric.