NEW CONSTRUCTION OF A MIXED-USE BUILDING IN GRAZ

• Exterior Architecture
• Engineering
• Landscape Architecture

The residential housing is located in the city center of Graz at a district boundary where homogenous Wilhelminian-era buildings and developments of differing heights, plot sizes and setbacks meet. The concept revolves around a unique architectural element linking the contrasting streetscape – the gable wall. Consisting of four different volumes that correlate with the structural context, the housing blends into its urban background by complementing its height, proportions and building line. Elevating the building by one level creates an open, glazed “common ground,” merging with the extended, park-like pavement featuring shade-giving trees and public seating. By transforming the neighborhood’s typical roof shape, the four units join together to correlate the residential complex to human scale, accentuated by the facade´s tactile surfaces with distinct variations in texture, material, and color. The 38 apartments and two office units, spread over 3700 m², balance the inside and outside with a private open space for each flat and access to a communal outdoor area on the roof top as well as in the courtyard. To foster a sense of community, the building also features a “common house” on the top including a shared event space with a kitchen and terrace. The facade´s segmentation, architectural design, and material selection are based on a contemporary approach, yet also nod to the historical surroundings while enhancing the streetscape.

• project name: BUILDING ON THE PAST
• function: Mixed Use, Residential
• location: Graz, AUSTRIA
• floor space: 3700 m²
• number of floors: 6-8
• number of units: 38 apartments + 2 commercial unit
• project team:

  • Robert Clerici, Giulia Gelmetti,
    Martin Lesjak, Amila Smajlovic

• photographer: INNOCAD