- Area: 5900 m²
- Year: 2013
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Photographs:Erika Mayer
Text description provided by the architects. The site is located between Messegelände and „Wurstelprater“, close to Vienna University Of Economics and Business and public park Prater, therefore optimal position with high recreational value.
Urban planning and building concept. Composition is formed by angular building structure and tower-like annex connected together with a transparent bridge passage. This location provides a spatial link between the subway station and amusement park Prater. Diverse open spaces with different uses are created throughout the arrangement of the building structure, including a designed plaza as a forecourt with the main entrance.
Design concept. The two-floor entrance lobby with common rooms on the ground floor has broad glazing openings and is shown on the facade, so in that way, the lobby is opened towards the central forecourt.
On the client ́s request all rooms were designed the same so consequently punctuated facade was developed with the pattern derived from the windows of the rooms. Every room is pointed out with one French window and with one smaller horizontal window. That sequence is extended over the entire structure, using as a consequence that juxtaposition and reflection of the window will generate the pattern. To emphasize the tower-shaped structure, on the northwest facade one bend was given, Attica was elevated over the main structure and glazed access was designed.
Forecourt towards subway station as part of urban design is in large part fixed and formed. Inner courtyards with recreational zones are fully cultivated and planted.
Layout concept. The main entrance leads into a two-floor lobby, to a place that is imagined as a meeting point and a communication area for students. Reception and administration are also placed there. Spatially and aesthetically laundry room, fitness area, and study space are integrated and connected to the lobby. The student dormitory has 420 single rooms arranged on both sides along spinal corridors. 9 special rooms meet the requirements of wheelchair users and are located on the ground floor. Every room is equipped with a private bathroom and a small kitchen unit. A generous 90cm closet and many other cabinets are integrated into the overall design of the room and they provide plenty of storage space for personal items. The bathroom with sink, shower, and toilet is naturally lighted through transparent glass doors.
A Free-standing and movable writing desk allows different spatial configurations and supports the individuality of the residents.
Upper floors mainly contain rooms and can be accessed with 3 staircases. Corridors are widened where the staircases are, where also natural light enters, and additional communication areas are created there on every floor. Multi-purpose room on 6th floor with spacious roof terrace and with view on public park Prater is available for students for their group activities.