A PLACE WITH MANY UNEXPECTEDLY MODERN IDEAS

“Loft” – is like an addictive essence of industrial architecture, culture and a high-quality lifestyle. The term embodies a free-spirited attitude to living and to life. Features include large interiors and 4 metre high ceilings with or without a mezzanine. The facades are mostly an archaic blend of high-tech and clinker. The ETICS, with STRÖHER clinker brick slips in the fashionable long format 380 x 52 mm on the facade, embodies both.

A concept that was created in 1920s Manhattan by poverty-stricken artists, under the disdainful gaze of the so-called “upper class”, quickly established itself, even then, as a lifestyle with that special something and a matching wallet. Disused industrial buildings were completely renovated and used as flagship buildings for an entire neighbourhood. Just as was the case in Manhattan, so it is today in one entire district in Vilnius. And the pioneering spirit with a love of luxury is palpable in the capital of Lithuania as well.

“Loft – is a lifestyle philosophy, a certain attitude towards living that not everyone is open to”, according to Loft Town architect Remigijus Bimba. He and investment company “Fünf Kontinente Investmentgesellschaft” therefore selected a mix of residential styles with strong commercial appeal: elegant apartments, inexpensive studios and avant-garde lofts with a private lift leading directly to the garage. The facades, on the other hand, are kept uniform with an authentic mixture of brick finishes. It was decided to use two shades of brown and grey that were created specially in accordance with the architect’s specifications, each with the long format 380 x 52 mm.

Multifunctional use over an area of 4.5 hectares: the conversion of an industrial estate into high quality residential, office and green spaces is being carried out in several stages. Around 15,000 square metres of residential and work spaces have already been transformed, and little sign is now left of the former Kuro Aparatura fuel pump and injector factory.

This is the first time in Lithuania that a team of experienced specialists has carried out a task of this magnitude and with this lifestyle standard in order to breathe new life into an old brownfield site and transform unused structures into modern infrastructure that is integrated into the whole city. This will benefit the entire region.