Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has been announced as the winner of the international architectural competition to design the new arrivals terminal at Vilnius Airport in Lithuania. This project marks a significant milestone in the airport’s long-term strategy to accommodate increasing passenger traffic and strengthen Lithuania’s position as a major gateway in the Baltic region.
Lithuania’s Minister of Transport and Communications, Eugenijus Sabutis, highlighted the need for a new arrivals terminal that meets both current demands and future aspirations. As the first impression for visitors entering the country, the terminal’s modern and passenger-friendly design will create a welcoming and lasting impact.
Increased Capacity & Culturally Inspired Design
The new terminal will enable Vilnius Airport to handle up to 10.6 million passengers annually, ensuring seamless service for the growing number of travelers. Prioritizing both functionality and passenger experience, the winning proposal merges unique architectural solutions with the cultural identity of Lithuania—transforming the terminal into an architectural ‘business card’ for the nation.
The design draws inspiration from Lithuanian folklore, particularly the rhombus and triangular geometric patterns symbolic in Baltic heritage. This is reflected in the terminal’s modular geometry and its striking pleated timber roof, inspired by sodai—traditional Lithuanian straw garden ornaments recognized by UNESCO.
Mobility Integration & Environmental Sustainability
Aligned with the Vilnius Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan, the terminal will serve as a vital multi-modal transportation hub connecting air travel with high-speed rail (Rail Baltica), regional trains, buses, taxis, and pedestrian and cycling routes.
The terminal is targeting an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating through the integration of cutting-edge sustainable features, including:
- 13,000 m² of solar panels for renewable energy.
- Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling through natural filtration systems.
- Hybrid natural ventilation and smart building systems that adjust energy use based on passenger flow.
A Future-Focused, Culturally Rooted Gateway
The design creates an architectural language that is both future-oriented and deeply rooted in Lithuanian cultural heritage. With carefully planned passenger flows, intuitive wayfinding, and abundant natural light, the terminal enhances both comfort and operational efficiency.
According to Ludovico Lombardi, Director at ZHA, “The terminal offers an innovative, seamless passenger experience while maintaining direct connections to Vilnius’ transport network.”
This development is an integral part of Vilnius Airport’s 30-year masterplan, boosting Lithuania’s regional and global connectivity, fostering economic growth, and reinforcing the airport’s role as the country’s primary air, rail, and road transportation hub.
- Source: Zaha Hadid Architects.
- Image: Render by Negativ/Zaha Hadid Architects. Courtesy of © Zaha Hadid Architects.
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