Zaha Hadid Architects to design Vilnius Airport’s new arrivals terminal following global competition

Credit: Lithuanian Airports (LTOU)

Lithuanian Airports (LTOU) has announced the shortlist for the new Vilnius Airport (VNO) arrivals terminal architectural design competition, naming Zaha Hadid Architects as the winning team. A jury of international experts, including airport representatives and leading architects from Lithuania and abroad, selected the top five entries from 11 qualifying submissions. The terminal is expected to be completed by the end of 2028.

Vilnius Airport’s new terminal design 

The new terminal is considered a strategic development for Lithuania’s aviation sector and economy. According to LTOU, the competition attracted strong interest from both local and international firms.

“The Vilnius Airport arrivals terminal must evolve. It no longer meets current needs or future ambitions. This terminal is the gateway to Lithuania and forms every visitor’s first impression. I’m pleased that the competition attracted a large number of high-quality and creative ideas, and the top-ranked projects offer modern, convenient, and future-proof solutions,” said Minister of Transport and Communications Eugenijus Sabutis.

The top five ranked architectural firms are:

1. Zaha Hadid Architects (United Kingdom)

2. UAB Aplan (Lithuania)

3. MB SYRUSAS, operating as IMPLMNT architects (Lithuania)

4. One Works (Italy)

5. UAB Baltic Engineers (Lithuania)

Simonas Bartkus, CEO of Lithuanian Airports, said: “Our key objectives are functionality and an outstanding passenger experience. We’re glad that the winning architectural concept reflects these priorities while introducing original solutions. The proposed design subtly blends modern, future-oriented infrastructure with Lithuanian cultural identity. We see this terminal as a strong symbol and welcoming gateway for visitors.”

Construction procurement is set to begin in early 2027. Laura Kairienė, Chief Architect of Vilnius City, commented: “I’m pleased that a mature and professional architectural solution has been selected for such a large-scale public infrastructure project. It’s a design that boldly looks to the future while respecting its context and surroundings. I believe the new terminal will ensure both functionality and comfort for passengers and become a benchmark of sustainable, high-quality architectural development in Vilnius.”

Zaha Hadid Architects’ proposal seeks to create a cohesive complex that unifies all Vilnius Airport terminals. It will integrate seamlessly with public transport and prioritise pedestrians, cyclists, and people with disabilities. Sustainable features will include rainwater harvesting, green landscaping, and natural materials. The design reflects Lithuanian cultural motifs, using diamond and triangle patterns to form a modern yet traditional architectural language.

A total prize fund of €120,000 will be shared among the top five ranked teams. A 10-day appeals period is now in effect, after which confidential negotiations will begin with the winning firm to prepare the technical design.

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