Zaha Hadid’s agency to design Vilnius Airport’s stunning new terminal

Vilnius Airport is set to receive a bold, futuristic makeover following the announcement that Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has won an international competition to design its new arrivals terminal. The renowned architecture firm, also behind one of Baku’s most iconic buildings, will bring its signature style to Lithuania’s capital in a transformative project.

Described as “a significant milestone” in the airport’s long-term development strategy, the terminal is intended to bolster Vilnius Airport’s status as a key entry point to the Baltic region. Airport authorities say the new facility will increase capacity to accommodate 10.6 million passengers annually.

“Our top priorities are functionality and delivering an exceptional passenger experience,” said Simonas Bartkus, CEO of Lithuanian Airports, as cited by ArchDaily. “The winning design fulfils these needs through architectural excellence while integrating cultural elements that reflect Lithuania’s national identity.”

“We see this terminal as a perfect first impression for every visitor,” Bartkus added.

The concept has already generated excitement in the global design media, praised for blending tradition with innovation. Drawing from Lithuania’s rich cultural heritage, the terminal’s design integrates national artistic motifs with cutting-edge architectural methods.

According to ZHA, “The terminal’s interior spaces are inspired by sodai straw gardens—an intricate folk art form recognized by UNESCO as part of Lithuania’s intangible cultural heritage.”

“Constructed from grain stalks, sodai are delicate geometric ornaments, often associated with well-being and festive occasions throughout the region.”

The firm elaborates that the new terminal’s design mimics the immersive feeling of being surrounded by sodai, with a pleated roof structure crafted from locally sourced timber. This roof defines the terminal’s interior, reflecting the interconnected geometry and lightness of traditional Lithuanian craftwork.

Sustainability also plays a central role in the terminal’s design. Plans include the installation of 13,000 square meters of rooftop solar panels, along with integrated systems for rainwater retention, stormwater management, and wastewater recycling.

Zaha Hadid Architects is internationally recognized for visionary public spaces with their Vilnius Airport is set to receive a bold, futuristic makeover following the announcement that Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has won an international competition to design its new arrivals terminal. The renowned architecture firm, also behind one of Baku’s most iconic buildings, will bring its signature style to Lithuania’s capital in a transformative project.

Described as “a significant milestone” in the airport’s long-term development strategy, the terminal is intended to bolster Vilnius Airport’s status as a key entry point to the Baltic region.

Airport authorities say the new facility will increase capacity to accommodate 10.6 million passengers annually.

“Our top priorities are functionality and delivering an exceptional passenger experience,” said Simonas Bartkus, CEO of Lithuanian Airports. “The winning design fulfills these needs through architectural excellence while integrating cultural elements that reflect Lithuania’s national identity.”

“We see this terminal as a perfect first impression for every visitor,” Bartkus added.

The concept has already generated excitement in the global design media, praised for blending tradition with innovation. Drawing from Lithuania’s rich cultural heritage, the terminal’s design integrates national artistic motifs with cutting-edge architectural methods.

According to ZHA, “The terminal’s interior spaces are inspired by sodai straw gardens—an intricate folk art form recognized by UNESCO as part of Lithuania’s intangible cultural heritage.”

“Constructed from grain stalks, sodai are delicate geometric ornaments, often associated with well-being and festive occasions throughout the region.”

The firm elaborates that the new terminal’s design mimics the immersive feeling of being surrounded by sodai, with a pleated roof structure crafted from locally sourced timber. This roof defines the terminal’s interior, reflecting the interconnected geometry and lightness of traditional Lithuanian craftwork.

Sustainability also plays a central role in the terminal’s design. Plans include the installation of 13,000 square meters of rooftop solar panels, along with integrated systems for rainwater retention, stormwater management, and wastewater recycling.

Zaha Hadid Architects is internationally recognized for visionary public spaces with their impressive portfolio including Beijing’s “starfish” Daxing International Airport, the Guangzhou Opera House, and Baku’s sculptural Heydar Aliyev Center—projects that combine iconic form with functional innovation. 

By Nazrin Sadigova