Vaduz Centrum reimagines the role of public infrastructure through a large-scale protective canopy designed to enhance the usability of urban space throughout the year. Positioned at the heart of Liechtenstein’s capital, the project by Gydey Valery Architect transforms an exposed civic area into a sheltered public environment capable of supporting retail activity, cultural events, and everyday social interaction across changing weather conditions.

At the centre of the proposal is a lightweight roof structure that creates a controlled microclimate while maintaining visual openness and a strong connection to the surrounding cityscape. Rather than enclosing public space, the intervention improves environmental comfort while preserving the qualities of an outdoor urban environment.

A lightweight environmental envelope

The defining architectural element is a floating canopy composed of ETFE cushions: translucent plastic membranes reinforced with aramid fibres to create a strong, lightweight roof system with reduced structural demands.

The transparency of the ETFE envelope allows natural daylight to reach the spaces below, reducing the need for artificial lighting during daytime hours while maintaining visual continuity with the sky and surrounding landscape. The lightweight construction also minimises material consumption relative to more conventional enclosed structures, supporting a resource-efficient approach to large-span public architecture.

Creating a protected year-round microclimate

A key sustainability objective of the project is the creation of a protected microclimate that extends the usability of public space throughout the year. By shielding users from rain, snow, and weather exposure, the canopy supports more consistent occupation and activity without the environmental cost associated with fully conditioned indoor environments. This strategy benefits social and economic activity by enabling outdoor markets, public gatherings, and retail operations to function across changing seasons. The project expands the capacity of the public realm without requiring additional enclosed floor area.

Energy-efficient public space activation

The canopy incorporates integrated lighting systems that enhance the space after dark while maintaining a low visual and energy footprint. The translucent roof can be illuminated to create changing atmospheric conditions for events and community gatherings, allowing a single piece of infrastructure to serve multiple functions throughout the day and evening. By combining daylight transmission with efficient artificial lighting, the project increases the utility of the space while reducing unnecessary energy consumption.