In 1913 the Public Assembly of Commerce and Industry built the so-called Merchants Club House for themselves. The biggest changes in the history of the edifice were made in the beginning of the 20th century, during the early Soviet Period, when the former Merchants Club House underwent major reconstructions within the course making adjustments in order to adapt it for administrative functions. Although the edifice is primarily interesting for its original purpose, its architecture may be just as fascinating. Here a simplified expression of Neo-Classicism is covered with shapes characteristic to Modernism and reflecting the spirit of that time. First of all, the impact of Modernism is evident when we take a look at the main highlight of the edifice, i.e., the tower highlighting the corner of the streets, which is typical to this style. Shapes attributable to Modernism are also incorporated in the moulded elements of décor as well as the characteristic modillions supporting the cornice of the attic. Another element strongly affected by this style is the door. Opening it takes us inside where we are greeted by the interior seamlessly incorporating interpretations of the classical architecture and integrating ideas of the décor characteristic to Modernism. The remaining painted fragments of floral décor on the walls and decorations of the stair railing design are combined with the ceiling decorations of geometrical shapes characteristic to another variation of this style. The edifice underwent a thorough reconstruction in 2011, the original expression of artificial sandstone façades was restored and the newly cast sculpture of Atlas was returned to the top of the tower, where it used to be.
Merchants’ Club - Gedimino pr. 35, Vilnius 01108, Lietuva
