Historic Homestead Transformation into an Art Center,
Project: PUPA / Life Over Space
In Panevėžys (Lithuanian: Panevėžys), the capital of upper Lithuania, a new building has been constructed in line with the dynamic cultural development of the city, initiated, among other things, by the establishment of the Stasys Museum. This time, the historic mansion has undergone a comprehensive revitalization, transforming into an artist's residence. The protected red brick monument was carefully restored by the Lithuanian PUPA / Life Over Space studio, which restored the old architectural details of the mansion. The project also included the construction of a modern wing, which, thanks to its thoughtful form and materials, harmoniously blends with the natural landscape of the surrounding park.
The historic mansion in Panevėžys - bird's eye view
Photo by Aistė Rakauskaitė © PUPA / Life Over Space
From a cultural center to a forgotten ruin:
The history of the former Panevėžys mansion
The process of creating an art center was a complex and multi-stage undertaking. The red brick mansion, built in the 1930s, originally served as the home of a local poet who held meetings of artists and intellectuals there. As a result, the place played an important role in the cultural life of the region. After World War II, during the Soviet occupation, the building was nationalized and its original function disappeared. In the following decades, the building gradually deteriorated until it became abandoned and almost completely forgotten.
The historic mansion in Panevėžys - a view of the historic red brick building and the new structure hidden underground
Photo by Aistė Rakauskaitė © PUPA / Life Over Space
transformation of an industrial city
into an art center
In 2017, the Panevezys city government adopted a strategic plan to transform the city from an industrial center into a center supporting the arts. As part of this initiative, it was planned to use EU funds for the implementation of key projects, and the revitalization of the mansion and its transformation into an artist's residence were identified as one of the priority goals.
The historic mansion in Panevezys - the development plan
© PUPA / Life Over Space
Revitalization of historic mansion
with modern expansion
Lithuanian architectural studio PUPA / Life Over Space won first prize in an architectural competition for a project that combines the revitalization of a historic mansion with a modern extension, creating a space that is tailored to the needs of artists and integrated into the surrounding landscape.
The historic mansion in Panevezys - a protected red brick monument - has been carefully restored by Lithuanian studio PUPA / Life Over Space
Photo by Aistė Rakauskaitė © PUPA / Life Over Space
The adaptation of the mansion was divided into two stages. The first stage involved the restoration of the brick building, which used conservation methods based on detailed historical research and consultation with experts in the field of historic preservation. Care was taken to faithfully restore original details, such as the brick facades, roof, interior plaster, decorative paintings and the surrounding orchard. Thanks to this stage, the authenticity and historical character of the building has been preserved.
The historic mansion in Panevezys - a longitudinal cross-section of the historic building and the new wing
© PUPA / Life Over Space
The creation of the modern wing
hidden underground
The second phase of the project included the expansion with a new part, different in character from the existing building. Located in an old city park with rivers, streams and numerous ponds flowing through it, the new building integrates with its surroundings without dominating the historic mansion or the park itself. The semi-circular glass structure has been partially recessed into the terrain.
Historic mansion in Panevezys - the glass construction with a semicircular plan has been partially recessed into the terrain
Photo by Aistė Rakauskaitė © PUPA / Life Over Space
The roof of the building is covered with vegetation that can be walked on freely. Thanks to large glazing, the building blends into the park space. Such a solution allows for harmony between the new extension and the historic character of the mansion.
The historic mansion in Panevėžys - the roof of the Art Center has been covered with vegetation that can be walked on freely
Photo by Aistė Rakauskaitė © PUPA / Life Over Space
integration with the site
and functionality of the new spaces
A key element of the project is a corridor that seamlessly connects the historic building to the Art Center located under the park. The expansion takes full advantage of the site's level differences, integrating the buildings with the nearby stream. New spaces include studios for art, design, applied theater, audio/video and alternative photography.
Panevezys Art Center - a projection of the newly constructed wing
© PUPA / Life Over Space
consistency of materials and space
The interiors of the building are distinguished by the use of durable, natural materials, such as concrete floors and walls, wooden ceilings and monochromatic furniture, which bring harmony and coherence to the space. The building also features an exhibition space, where works of art are displayed both indoors and outdoors, allowing for permanent display.
Historic Panevėžys mansion - new spaces include studios for art, design, applied theater, audio-visual and alternative photography
Photo by Aistė Rakauskaitė © PUPA / Life Over Space
In September 2024, the Art Center received an award for the best recreational architecture project of the year 2023 from the Algimantas Zavišas Charity and Cultural Support Foundation.
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of PUPA / Life Over Space studio.
