A retreat designed to slow life down

Hidden in the forests beyond Vilnius, Sanctum is designed to belong rather than dominate.
From the start, the project invites visitors to slow down and reconnect with nature. The architecture remains calm, restrained, and tactile. Buildings follow the natural terrain instead of reshaping it.

As a result, the retreat blends quietly into its forest setting. Kebony wood cladding and roofing support this dialogue with nature. Moreover, more than 50,000 linear meters of Kebony wood create a unified, natural envelope.

Architecture shaped by patience and precision

“The design and construction of Sanctum took nearly four years.” say Arūnas Liola and Greta Gulbinskė from Arches Studio

Completed in 2026, the project reflects long-term thinking and careful detailing.
Every decision considered the site, materials, and architectural longevity. The retreat includes:

  • a main building with accommodation and shared spaces
  • a multipurpose room for up to 50 people
  • independent cabins and wellness areas set deeper in the forest

Therefore, Sanctum reads as a cohesive ensemble rather than a single statement building.

Why Kebony wood was chosen

From the outset, sustainability and low maintenance guided material selection.
The client sought solutions that would perform reliably in a forest environment.

“The goal was not to create an iconic structure, but a robust ensemble in harmony with the landscape.” — Arches Studio

Kebony wood supports this ambition through:

    • natural aesthetics
    • high dimensional stability
    • long-term durability without surface treatments

Developed in Norway, Kebony uses a patented, bio‑based modification process.
As a result, it delivers hardwood-level performance with a reduced environmental footprint.

Landscape integration through material continuity

At Sanctum, Kebony wood is installed as a ventilated façade system.
It is fixed to a wooden substructure using stainless steel fasteners. The same material spans façades and roofing.
Therefore, architectural unity remains consistent across the entire site. Over time, the wood weathers naturally. Consequently, the buildings soften visually and merge further with the forest.

“Kebony wood allows the architecture to age gracefully and blend seamlessly into the landscape.” underlines Arches Studio

Built experience as a design driver

For Arches Studio, Kebony is a material proven through repeated use.
Experience, not theory, drives its specification.

“Every time we use Kebony, we learn more about its creative properties.”
concludes Arūnas Liola, Arches Studio

Finally, at Sanctum, this knowledge results in architecture defined by calmness, durability, and respect for nature.