“We have always hoped that this building would be renovated, fully adapted to the needs of academic studies, and restored to an aesthetically pleasing condition,” says Dr. Benediktas Petrauskas, KU Vice-Rector for Infrastructure and Development.
The faculty building holds historical significance as one of the first facilities taken over by the University from former military barracks and adapted for academic use. Following a partial reconstruction in 1995, the building initially housed the Faculty of Natural Sciences. In 2005, partial roof restoration works were carried out in accordance with an approved project.
However, the majority of the building was last renovated more than 30 years ago, and the materials, technologies, and standards applied at that time no longer meet contemporary requirements. In light of this, a decision has been made to comprehensively reconstruct the building and adapt it to modern study needs.
This is the second heritage-focused renovation project of similar scale undertaken by the University. Last year, the reconstruction of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities was successfully completed and the building officially reopened.
The reconstruction works will be carried out by UAB “Pamario restauratorius”. The project value will amount to up to EUR 4 million, with an estimated duration of approximately 18 months. The project is scheduled for completion in September 2027.
“The reconstruction of the Faculty of Marine Technologies and Natural Sciences building is a strategically important step that will enable more than 3,000 square meters of space to be adapted to contemporary study requirements. It significantly contributes to the strategic development of the University campus and the modernization of study and research infrastructure. The renovated and functional spaces will ensure higher study quality and improved conditions for the academic community,” emphasizes KU Rector Prof. Dr. Artūras Razbadauskas.
The total area of the reconstructed building is 3,032.14 square meters. According to the project plans, new spacious premises totaling approximately 500 square meters will be installed in the attic and adapted for study and administrative purposes. The roof will be renovated, and new internal engineering systems will be installed, including water supply, lighting, heating, fire safety, security alarm, and ventilation systems.
The project also provides for the repair of part of the existing windows and doors, as well as the replacement of selected window and door units. As the existing staircases are protected as valuable architectural elements reflecting the building’s historical period, the stair treads and the original stone tile flooring will be carefully restored. In addition, existing lecture halls and other premises will be renovated.
This reconstruction will make a significant contribution to improving the quality of studies, developing modern infrastructure, and strengthening an attractive academic environment in Klaipėda.
