SPZ

BRIEF: Center for the disabled. Maximum preservation of the green areas, while taking the neighboring small-section buildings into consideration.

ADDED VALUE: With the sculptural molding of the building and its striking metal skin, the building demonstrates the needs and the position of the handicapped in our society. Defined according to the needs of the users, the organization of the building volume creates zones of varying intimacy. The classrooms convey the atmosphere of an intimate living room with “children-friendly” interiors and bay windows.

This school in Hallein is especially designed for children. The “genius loci” is given its character by its proximity to the Salzach River promenade, the distant beautiful view of the Alps, and the adjacent housing area. The linchpin of the interior organization is the glazed hall, connecting the levels for special classes with the levels for the disabled. The hall is also the reception and “free-time” area and, because of the similar materials used, it brings the outside inside. These material similarities form a connection between the outside play area by the Salzach, the city-influenced front area, and the sports hall. Its exceptional shape along with the unusual materials of the walls and roof – i.e., its stainless steel skin – all lead to establishing the unique identity of the children’s school.
Location
Hallein
2005
Typology
school

Construction volume
gfa 4.050 m² cubature 15.000 m³

Client
Salzburg Wohnbau

Realization
2004-2005

Competition
1st prize 2003

Project manager
Stefan Haass

Photographers
Angelo Kaunat, Gerhard Hagen

Awards
Architekturpreis des Landes Salzburg 2006
nominated for Mies van-der-Rohe Award 2007
contract world award honorable mention 2007