The proposal for the school extension for Viticulture and Pomology in Klosterneuburg, Austria connects the old history of the institution with the tradition of viticulture. The design aims to create a contemporary landmark in the urban context, while simultaneously initiating an architectural dialogue between its existing counterparts.
The building is organized in three wings, each defined by the axis of the site boundary. Parallel to the main street, the ‘public wing’ connects all publicly accessible programs; the main entrance and the shop and seminary rooms on the first floor. During public events, the open layout provides spatial flexibility, as well as additional social qualities.
Adjacent to the existing building, the sports venue with its allocated rooms creates a direct connection between the old and new institutes. The south facing wing is partially underground, hence calmer, ideal for allocating additional storage, office space, and research labs. All three wings are connected through an atrium, which serves as a central circulation core and a vibrant meeting place. At the rooftop we located various greenhouses, raised planters, in addition to the living-roof-vegetation, forming a lush and harmonious roofscape. The rooftop provides not only educational value, but also offers a retreat for students, teachers, and visitors throughout the year.
Glulam beams and columns used as the main structural components ensure a sustainable and long-lasting intervention. The façade contains a playful variation of prefabricated, concave shaped elements, which span between the main structural columns in different perforations and densities. The curved shape of each ‘pocket’ provides room for vines to grow vertically along the façade, while also creating a protective threshold with a small façade build-up. The vines in combination with the wooden slats add to the natural combination of materials with a different appearance throughout the seasons. The facade concept acts as a canvas for nature to thrive on, re-establishing the connection between winemaking and flora in an urbanized setting.
