Gintaras Čaikauskas, Faustas Lasys, and Simonas Čaikauskas, Lithuanian architects and partners at Architektūros linija, lead a practice recognized for its contextual and contemporary approach to architecture. Established in 1992, the firm has contributed significantly to Lithuania’s architectural landscape, with projects such as the Sportsmen Training Center in Druskininkai and the Residential Block in Paupys, Vilnius. Their work has garnered international attention, including a nomination for the MIPIM Awards 2022 in the Best Urban Project category.
Gintaras Čaikauskas, with over three decades of experience, has been instrumental in shaping the firm’s design philosophy, emphasizing harmony between built environments and their natural contexts. Faustas Lasys holds a Master’s degree in Architecture from Vilnius Gediminas Technical University and contributes to the firm’s innovative residential and public projects. Simonas Čaikauskas, also an alumnus of Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, brings a fresh perspective to the practice, integrating contemporary design principles with a respect for local heritage.
Together, they continue to influence the evolution of Lithuanian architecture through projects that balance functionality, aesthetic value, and environmental sensitivity.
What inspires you?
Gintaras Čaikauskas
I draw inspiration for my work from Lithuanian nature, historical context, the urban environment, and a deep respect for people and their living spaces. I often emphasize that architecture should harmonize with its surroundings and carry meaning, both aesthetically and functionally. The dialogue between tradition and modernity is also important to me.
Faustas Lasys
As an architect, I believe it’s essential to observe the world constantly. Inspiration can come from anywhere — a painting seen in a museum, or even a messy room full of scattered children’s toys. Everything around us has the potential to spark creativity if we’re open to seeing it. However, when it comes time to actually design, the primary source of inspiration should always be the context — the site, its history, its people. At the same time, it’s incredibly valuable to draw on the reservoir of past observations and experiences, allowing subtle influences to shape and enrich the architectural response.
Simonas Čaikauskas
I am inspired by human ingenuity and its achievements in the broadest sense. Since ancient times, humanity has been propelled forward by discoveries, inventions, and innovations. The driving force behind all these changes is creativity and bold, unconventional thinking — qualities that can be applied not only in architecture and art but also in technology, science, and even economics. Seeing the ever-accelerating pace of technological advancement, I feel motivated not to fall behind in my own field — to seek innovative design and functional solutions so that the architecture we create keeps pace with the spirit of the times.
What inspired you to become an architect?
Gintaras Čaikauskas
I was inspired to choose the profession by a deep interest in visual art, environmental shaping, and creative expression. I was drawn to the opportunity to combine artistic expression with functionality and to design spaces that have a meaningful impact on people’s lives. My decision was also influenced by a desire to contribute to the formation of cities and society, leaving a lasting imprint through architecture. I emphasize that architecture is not just a profession for me—it is a way of life. I believe architecture must be meaningful and harmonize with its surroundings, and that an architect must constantly improve and remain open to the perspectives of others. These values and my approach to architecture ultimately guided my decision to pursue this path and strive for excellence in creative work.
Faustas Lasys
When I was a child, my parents were building a house, and I tried to be involved in the process as much as I could. I was fascinated by the idea that there is a person — an architect — who envisions everything before it’s built. That experience sparked a deep curiosity. At the same time, I attended art school throughout my childhood, and I also enjoyed mathematics and other exact sciences. Eventually, I realized that architecture is a form of applied art where I could bring together both my creative and analytical sides. That balance is what ultimately drew me to the profession.
Simonas Čaikauskas
There was no inspiration really. When I was a child, I wasn’t particularly interested in different professions — I really only understood and knew one: architecture, because that’s what my father did. So when the time came to choose a path in life, you could say I took a chance without giving it much thought. In a way, I was lucky — I happened to choose the right path for myself. That said, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend doing the same, because this profession is by no means easy, quite the opposite. That’s why it’s important to think it through carefully and get familiar with its specifics before applying, so you don’t have unrealistic expectations and end up disappointed.
How would you describe your design philosophy?
Simonas Čaikauskas
Our design philosophy is like an alloy of artistry, functionality, and genius loci. As architects, we boldly seek unconventional solutions in form, plasticity, and expression, incorporating the latest technologies and experimenting with materials. While doing so, we never forget that we are creating architecture that is not an end in itself, but is meant for its primary user — whether that be a resident, an employee, a scientist, or simply a passerby.
We strive to ensure maximum comfort and meaningful, beautiful experiences for all these groups when surrounded by architecture. We believe that every plot of land is unique and carries within it a hidden formula specific only to itself. That’s why with every project, we aim to discover a unique solution that best reveals the spirit and distinctiveness of the place.
What is your favorite project?
Faustas Lasys
Your favorite project should always be the one you’re working on at the moment. That’s the only way to give it your full energy and dedication. Of course, once a building is completed, some projects leave a deeper emotional mark — but not necessarily because of the architecture itself. Often, it’s about the people: the clients, the collaborators, the builders who became friends. After all, architecture is always about people — and for people. One particularly meaningful project for me was a residential neighborhood in Paupys, Vilnius. It was developed by an incredible team and later recognized internationally — it was shortlisted at MIPIM in the Best Urban Project category. That kind of recognition is rewarding, but it’s the journey with the team that made it truly memorable.
What is your favorite detail?
Faustas Lasys
I believe true brilliance lies in simplicity. One of my favorite details comes from the design of Lukiškės Square in Vilnius. We used very simple concrete curbs for the pathways, but we set them 3 centimeters below the surface level. At first, the curbs were clearly visible, but over time, the grass naturally grew over them. This small move allowed the square to age gracefully — something I consider crucial in architecture. A good space or building should improve with time, and this subtle intervention is a great example of that principle in action.
Do you have a favorite material?
Simonas Čaikauskas
We believe that there are no bad materials — only inappropriate applications. Although it may seem that our projects predominantly feature brick facades or glass, these are not necessarily our preferred choices. Such decisions are intuitively guided by the context in which the building will stand and the genius loci.
What is your process for starting a new project?
Faustas Lasys
For me, everything begins with context. But over time, you realize that context isn’t just about the physical site — it’s multilayered. There’s the immediate geographical and environmental context, of course. But the client and their vision represent another form of context. The economic situation is just as important, especially in larger or public projects. And sometimes, even the political climate plays a key role. Before I start designing anything, I take the time to mentally process all these layers. Only then can I begin to shape a meaningful architectural response.
How do you fuel your creativity?
Simonas Čaikauskas
We believe that there is no magical formula for summoning inspiration — only consistent work. When you think about a particular question every day and continuously search for a solution, sooner or later, the answer will reveal itself. Knowing this truth is, in a way, motivating, because no matter how complex the architectural task or how unpredictable the form search may be, with enough time and attention, it is possible to find the right idea.
What inspired Sportsmen Training Center in Druskininkai?
Gintaras Čaikauskas
The project aimed to harmoniously integrate into the sensitive natural environment. The rationality and functionality dictated by the typology of this type of building were discreetly adapted to the expressive terrain, without overpowering the local context. The volumes of sports halls at different heights do not diminish the natural surroundings—instead, they emphasize their grandeur. By composing the halls in ascending order based on the perspective principle, the building avoids imposing on the landscape. From a human viewpoint, the smaller halls conceal the larger ones, while the colorful horizontal strip on the first-floor façade draws the eye. This reduces the perceived scale of the volumes and highlights the surrounding nature.
Visitors arriving for the first time often ask, upon seeing the single-story gallery in the foreground, “Where is the entire complex?”
Pine forests, fresh air, tranquility, and the full ability for athletes to focus on preparation for future competitions as well as personal training toward peak performance were among the core elements behind this project.
How did materiality shape the Sportsmen Training Center in Druskininkai?
Gintaras Čaikauskas
The long-lasting facades of the complex were designed with great consideration for the natural context. A computer-generated band of Olympic colors decorates the first-floor façade and becomes the main artistic accent of the complex.
When selecting finishing materials, the impact of the surrounding nature and future maintenance needs was considered. Nearby pine trees shed sticky resin and pollen, often covering the facades. Therefore, natural copper ventilated façades were chosen—a durable, noble, and easily cleaned material that gracefully accepts natural changes without losing its aesthetic appeal. Some of the building’s volumes are also clad in natural clinker tiles.
How did the public embrace the Bridge in Jonava?
Gintaras Čaikauskas
The concept development behind the Bridge in Jonava began in 2016. After analyzing the client’s expectations and the real situation, and evaluating the specifics of the context, several possible solutions were proposed.
The planned connection addresses both logistical challenges and modern urban life issues, aspiring to become a symbol of Jonava. The pedestrian and bicycle bridge over a busy highway connects residential areas with the multifunctional Jonava Sports Arena.
After reviewing the architectural proposals, the client selected the most ambitious option. The spatial structure of the expressive, memorable design reflects the character of the Sports Arena. Together, the two structures form a modern, distinctive, and unified architectural ensemble.
The impressive structure—60.85 meters long, 8.6 meters high, 9.96 meters wide, and weighing 172 tons—will serve not only as a bridge between two parts of Jonava but also as a striking landmark and a unique piece of architectural art.
What advice would you give to young architects?
Gintaras Čaikauskas
Responsibility for the environment. An architect must take responsibility for the environment they create. Every project should not only be aesthetically appealing but also fit harmoniously into the urban context, respecting history and nature.
Collaboration and teamwork. Architecture is not the work of a solitary creator. It’s essential to know how to collaborate with engineers, designers, clients, and other professionals. Only through teamwork can the best results be achieved.
Lifelong learning and development. Architecture is a constantly evolving field. Young professionals must continually deepen their knowledge, stay curious about innovations, technologies, and trends, and go beyond academic learning to gain a broader understanding of the world and humanity.
Ethics and professional integrity. Ethics are crucial in architecture. An architect must be honest with themselves, the client, and society. Decisions should be based not only on aesthetics and economics but also on moral principles.
Creativity and innovation. While respecting tradition, young architects should be bold, exploring new forms, materials, and solutions. Creativity is the driving force of architecture, enabling the creation of unique, functional, artistic, and enduring buildings.
