Research

Demonstrative building for the University of Arts Linz – climate-neutral conversion at Herbert-Bayer-Platz

The start of the year saw the launch of the Prunerstraße 5 project by the Chair of Building Culture. Under the direction of Heidi Pretterhofer and Michael Rieper, a climate-neutral study for the site is to be developed over the next twelve months.

Together with the Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft as the owner, the University of Art and Design Linz wants to develop the 1960s building into a prototypical building that meets the socially relevant requirements of a university as well as sustainable standards. As a pioneering city, Linz is striving for climate neutrality and a reduction in land sealing. The research project is funded by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency FFG - Technology and Innovation for the Climate Neutral City, Subtheme 3.1: Demonstration of Climate Neutral Buildings.

The creation of outstanding spatial moments is at the heart of project development. The model scenarios of phase 0 do not exclude any option, i.e. either comprehensive conversion of the existing building or partial demolition with new construction or total demolition with reuse of existing components and sustainable CO2-neutral new construction. The highest possible frequency of use and the lowest possible vacancy rate of existing space resources also have top priority. For this reason, hybrid uses of rooms - also across institutes - are envisaged.

A key component of the project is the involvement of various experts, stakeholders and users. Urban society - politics, business and citizens - should also be activated and involved. The building is intended to serve as a real laboratory for multifunctional use, strengthen the connection between the university and the city of Linz, create a meeting place and promote the democratic values of an open society.