Palanga selects architectural vision for new art gallery

Palanga, Lithuania, is set to gain a new art gallery, with an international architectural competition yielding a winning design intended to become a city icon. The ambitious goal was to create not just a space for art, but a structure that itself embodies artistic merit and becomes a symbol for the coastal resort town.

Out of 12 submissions, the project titled "Inspired" by MB Studija „Heima“ secured first place and a 13,000 euro prize. This design envisions a single-story, horizontally oriented building with organic forms that seamlessly integrate into Palanga's natural landscape. Its undulating roofline is inspired by the dunes and sea waves characteristic of the Baltic coast. The surrounding area is planned to include a sculpture park, walking paths, and public spaces.

Second place and a 10,000 euro prize went to MB „Syrusas“ for their project "Šilas" (Pine Forest). This design emphasizes a dialogue between the city and the forest, referencing the pavilion architecture popular in Palanga during the latter half of the 20th century. The third-place winner, UAB „Ambraso architektų biuras,“ received 7,000 euros for "Didysis Švilpis" (The Great Whistle), a design inspired by a work of the same name by Palanga-born sculptor Antanas Mončys. This concept features a building nestled into the landscape, topped with an extensive green roof.

The judging panel, led by Gintaras Balčytis, president of the Lithuanian Architects Union, evaluated the proposals based on their artistic vision and functional planning. The competition required designs to accommodate approximately 3,700 square meters of gallery space, including adaptable exhibition halls for contemporary installations, permanent and temporary displays, educational areas, event spaces, a bookstore, and a café. An outdoor exhibition area was also a key consideration. The gallery is slated for construction at the end of Vytautas Street, near Birutė Park.