The main aim was to create high quality living for both existing and new residents. The central element in this regard “a view of the danube for all” was to be achieved through slender buildings and by adapting the different heights of the new blocks. The shared outdoor space functions as a fifth façade inviting new and existing residents to spend time there, to care for their own little piece of garden, or to exercise.
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Urban Design & Architecture Design Awards 2025
Karlheinz Hora Hof
Residential Architecture (Built)
Firm
querkraft
Architect/Designer
Zsuzsanna Takacsy
Design Team
Guillermo Alvarez, Irene Carles, Franziska Däuble, Robert Haranza, Magdalena Süss, Michael Voit, Johannes Zotter
Location
Handelskai 214A, 1020 Wien
Country
Austria
Photographer/Copyright
©querkraft – hertha hurnaus
Respect for the existing buildings
Regarding the existing public housing behind – it was treated with great respect. The old, shabby garage block on the building site was removed. A new lightful garage was built but with one floor less so that now more light and sun can penetrate.
The undulating rhythm of the existing buildings is continued by the stepped heights of the seven new blocks. The intelligent positioning of these blocks guarantees sufficient light for the living areas in the buildings behind them.
Garden deck as open space for social exchange
The public garden deck acts as a welcome area between the highly frequented handelskai street and the small car-free residential street oriented towards the adjacent existing housing complexes. This activated footpath is both a connecting and a structuring element for the entire complex. It highlights the existing quarter by generating a new open zone that allows the residents to relax, make sports and practice urban gardening.
Shelter
The cantilevered loggias are perhaps the most immediately striking feature of the building. These prefabricated concrete elements are mounted on the north-western and south-eastern fronts of each building. By swiveling them the views outside and into the private area are deliberately directed towards the danube. Consequently, the outdoor space remains private, and the special view is given the attention that this site calls for.
Each loggia with its tapering walls was produced as a single piece in the concrete works. The loggias were hung in place on site, fixed to just 4 bearing points. Through a clever variation of the geometry a lively hybrid of balcony and loggia was created. Special fixtures for equipping the balcony area encourage new residents to become actively involved in shaping their private outdoor space.