Sportsmen training center
in Druskininkai,
design: architektūros linija
The training center for athletes in Druskininkai, Lithuania, is the largest and one of the most technologically advanced facilities of its kind in the country. Designed by Architektūros linija and completed in 2022, the 16,500 sqm complex is harmoniously integrated into the surrounding pine forest. Its architecture combines functionality with eco-friendly solutions, taking into account landscape and environmental considerations. The facility exemplifies a modern approach to sports infrastructure design, integrating training, recreational and administrative spaces into one cohesive whole.
The training center for athletes in Druskininkai, Lithuania, is the largest and one of the most technologically advanced facilities of its kind in the country
Photo: Norbert Tuka © Architektūros linija
subtle integration into the landscape
- building in dialogue with nature
The complex has been located on a newly delineated street in a way that allows its mass to be gradually revealed - while on the way out of the city, the forest landscape dominates for a long time, and the building becomes visible only at the last moment. The halls of varying heights were designed to fit harmoniously into the neighborhood, accentuating its scale and character rather than overwhelming it. The individual cuboid blocks, divided functionally, were arranged on terraces that matched the natural terrain. By applying the principles of perspective and conscious spatial composition, it was possible to optically reduce the horizontal mass of the development - the higher halls were placed behind the lower ones, which graduates the scale of the building and allows it to fit more smoothly into the surrounding landscape.
Training center for athletes in Druskininkai, Lithuania - elevation drawing
© Architektūros linija
thoughtful facade
- harmony of form and color in the design
The building gains coherence from its carefully designed facade, whose individual elements work together to form a unified composition. Glazing is used on the first floor, while the higher parts of the building are distinguished by a colorful facade strip of narrow vertical slats. This structure not only attracts attention, but also optically softens the massiveness of the block, while enhancing the surrounding landscape. The slats' varied colors refer to the Olympic color palette, bringing a distinctive touch to the design.
Training center for athletes in Druskininkai, Lithuania - the first floor of the building has been glazed, while the higher parts of the building are distinguished by a colorful facade strip of narrow vertical slats
Photo: Norbert Tuka © Architektūros linija
On the opposite side of the building, natural copper was used as the main finishing material. It was chosen for its durability, ease of maintenance and resistance to weathering. The decision was dictated by the presence of pine trees in the area, whose resin and pollen can settle on the surface of the facade, affecting its aesthetics and maintenance.
Training center for athletes in Druskininkai, Lithuania - the facade of the facility from the other side of the building
Photo: Norbert Tuka © Architektūros linija
space flexibility:
main hall adapted to various functions
The main hall has been designed as a multifunctional space that can be used both for daily training and for hosting sports events with a medium number of spectators. Thanks to a system of drop-down curtains, it is possible to divide it into two separate training zones. During larger events, the curtains can be raised and additional stands can be unfolded, increasing the number of available seats to 600.
Training center for athletes in Druskininkai, Lithuania - site plan
© Architektūros linija
supporting infrastructure:
hotel, sports and administrative facilities
The complex includes a hotel, hypoxic chambers, and catering and administrative facilities. In the immediate vicinity of the facility is a football field with a covered grandstand with 300 seats and additional fields suitable for various sports.
Training center for athletes in Druskininkai, Lithuania - the main hall was designed as a multifunctional space
Photo: Norbert Tuka © Architektūros linija
The training center for athletes in Druskininkai, Lithuania, was designed in a way that takes into account and respects the surrounding landscape. The architects matched the form of the building to the terrain, so that the structure naturally coexists with the surrounding nature, not overwhelming it, but enhancing its character.
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of Architektūros linija.
