Artsy D9 Iṣeto Inu Ọfiisi

Press Kit

Unique Properties

The primary building originally was built in the 1890s. At that time it was designed by architect V. Polozov, it started as a single-story house. In 1912, a 2nd floor was added, and it became a renowned gynecology clinic, residence, and later a court during WWII. Reclaimed in 1994, when architect Leonardas Vaitys added a striking trapezoidal extension. Finally, in 2022-2023, IMPLMNT architects began a project that seamlessly married past and present.
The Artsy D9, designed by IMPLMNT architects in 2023, is more than a workspace; it's a creative sanctuary. Inside, meticulously preserved 19th century polychrome paintings, ornate moldings, and finely crafted details coexist with contemporary art from the Noewe Foundation. Over 170 works, including pieces by Cindy Sherman and Andres Serrano, blend seamlessly into the space.

This fusion of art and heritage creates a unique atmosphere - part museum, part gallery, and part workspace. It's a place where history comes alive, and the past resonates with the present.

Officially as a cultural heritage building it was recognized in 1996. The facade and interior, with their early 20th-century charm, remain intact.

Dimensions & Packaging

2100 square meters

Tags

Office, museum, gallery, contemporary art, interior design, interior, history, architecture

Production Technology

In the Artsy D9, the interior design echoes the building's dual nature. The old section, with its restored polychrome paintings and plaster work, embraces its museum-like ambiance. The new area, with its glazed atrium, lends a spacious and gallery-like feel. Unlike traditional museums, we chose to reveal the building's history, retaining its authentic fragments. In the gallery, we've maintained a clean, bright, and regular environment, allowing the art to shine without distraction.
Almost 200 employees work in the office.

Design Challenge

The creative challenge for the Artsy D9 project was to balance historical preservation with contemporary functionality. This required extensive research to understand the building's historical significance and restoration techniques. Collaboration with historians, polychromy specialists, and cultural heritage experts was crucial in overcoming obstacles related to information availability and legal requirements. We faced external challenges related to production possibilities and technology, requiring innovative solutions to incorporate modern amenities while preserving the building's architectural integrity. Additionally, considering social perspectives, we aimed to create a welcoming space that celebrates art, history, and community engagement. The project's realization required a careful balance of internal and external factors, ultimately resulting in a dynamic and culturally rich environment.

Research

The design research for Artsy D9 involved an extensive collaboration with historians, polychromy specialists, and other researchers. We delved into the architectural history, understanding the building's evolution, from its 19th-century origins to its modern-day transformation. Working with experts, we meticulously restored and preserved the authentic elements, from the facade to the interior paintings and ornate moldings. Our approach aimed to maintain the building's cultural heritage while creating a modern, functional space. We also studied similar projects worldwide, drawing inspiration from their successful integration of historical and contemporary elements. Through our research and collaboration, we ensured that the Artsy D9 honors its past while embracing its future as a vibrant, cultural hub.

Inspiration

Once the current owner of the building had decided to exhibit art from a private collection here, an interesting fusion of art and office space was born, inspiring the Artsy D9 name. Even though the collection consists exclusively of contemporary works of art, immeasurable attention has been given to preserving the authentic historical and architectural value of the building.

Project Duration

The project started in March 2022 in Vilnius, Lithuania, and was finished in June 2023.

Operation Flow

The project operates as a multi-functional space, seamlessly transitioning between an office and contemporary art gallery. Throughout the day, it transforms based on use - from bustling work environment to vibrant art exhibit. Interaction is key; it's an inviting space, encouraging dialogue between visitors and creators. Key frames include flexible furniture, movable walls, which optimize the space. This innovation enhances the environment's adaptability, ensuring a better result - it's both a functional office and immersive art space. This dual-purpose design improves performance, creating a dynamic atmosphere that fosters creativity and community engagement.
Artsy D9 is not just a workspace but also a public contemporary art museum. Twice a month, it opens its doors to visitors with guided tours, offering a glimpse into the creative process. Moreover, the office participates in the prestigious Open House Vilnius, one of the largest architecture festivals in the Baltic Countries. During this event, a large number of people have the opportunity to explore the office/gallery free of charge. This dynamic interaction, coupled with its dual functionality, underscores its significance as a versatile and engaging space.

Image Credits

Photographer: Darius Petrulaitis
Video credits: Tomas Vilys