Sąvaržėlė
A nature-led, near net zero workplace in the heart of Vilnius CBD
Vilnius, Lithuania
Sąvaržėlė is a new 19,200 sqm business centre set at the heart of Vilnius Central Business District (CBD) in Lithuania. Arranged over seven storeys, the building provides more than 16,000 sqm of flexible office space and is designed to operate at near net zero environmental performance. Gillespies is leading the landscape design, shaping a generous and layered public realm that includes a new city square and a publicly accessible roof terrace.
Drawing inspiration from Lithuania’s diverse landscapes and the local character of Vilnius, including the nearby river and indigenous tree species, the landscape concept gives the building a distinct identity while also strengthening its connection to the wider city. Nature is integrated throughout the development, extending from the public realm into the heart of the building and across every level, to support a healthy, resilient and productive workplace.
The public realm is structured as a series of interconnected outdoor spaces that respond to orientation, movement and patterns of use. Existing mature trees have been carefully retained to preserve their environmental and ecological value as well as ensuring the landscape feels established from the outset and delivers immediate visual impact. Additional planting varies across the public realm according to light and activity levels, creating a rich yet cohesive landscape experience that encourages movement, pause and social interaction. Sheltered areas are characterised by woodland inspired planting, while spaces with higher levels of activity are supported by robust shrubs, grasses and perennials, as well as more ornamental planting to introduce seasonal change and a strong sense of arrival.
The public realm links the CBD with the Old Town through an arcade of shops and cafes, supported by a covered public street that runs through the heart of the CBD. Above the street is a grand staircase that connects both sides of the courtyard.
Within the courtyard, a series of planted platforms and landings appear to float, linked by generous steps. These spaces create sociable circulation spaces that also offer opportunities for gatherings and meetings.
A 35-metre living vertical vine planted with evergreen climbers introduces a striking biophilic element within the heart of a fully glazed atrium. Supported by a bespoke structure and automated irrigation system, the planting is designed to establish and grow naturally with minimal maintenance. As well as delivering visual impact, the vine will help improve air quality, soften acoustics and contribute to a more comfortable environment, supporting wellbeing and tenants’ everyday connection to nature.
Project details
Title
Sąvaržėlė
Client
Lords LB Asset Management
Project team
RSHP, Gillespies, Buro Happold
Gillespies team
Stephen Richards, Karolina Skonieczna, Ben Blizzard