The brief sought a campus extension that would create a contemporary university quarter and so enhance Krems’ reputation as a nationally significant centre of cultural and academic excellence. Other requirements included first-rate energy credentials and cutting-edge technical facilities.

The site houses four buildings, three linked by a shared ground floor, with an interplay of built and open spaces that gives the campus its own distinctive character. The combination of stand-alone blocks and shared forms echoes the ease with which the compact structures blend into the larger urban context. To the south and west, the campus opens out, continuing the layout of the neighbouring university buildings and creating a network of logical entry points into the area.

A ‘place within a place’

Like any small town, the campus has paths and squares, arcades and outdoor areas. The careful balance of built and open spaces ensures that nothing appears fussy or outsized. This impression is amplified by the specific form of the blocks with their off-square, projecting corners, which concentrate the physiognomy of the buildings and shape the exterior space.

The impact and efficiency of the campus buildings flow from their form and underlying structure. The blocks have been kept as compact as possible with a primary structure – comprising a load-bearing exterior wall and rows of load-bearing columns – designed to achieve maximum functional neutrality and longevity. Stairwells and shafts have been combined in load-bearing cores; all other fit-out works are reversible. The large span widths and economic 1.2m fit-out axis grid ensure optimum space efficiency and flexibility for future modifications and uses. Economics and the environment also go hand in hand when it comes to building services, where primarily alternative and sustainable systems keep operating costs low.

Harmonious appearance, high amenity values

The four blocks form a single, recognisable whole. The narrow fit-out grid and portrait-format windows lend the development a classical air, while the subtly differing shades of the aluminium panels give the facades depth and interest. Inside, light tones and natural materials dominate, combining with views of the landscape beyond to create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.