Linz University Campus

... is the leitmotif that aims to form a coherent overall structure out of the elements to be erected in phases. We interpret this postulate in the form of a geometric, newly laid out, triangular pattern, a self-referential system with a strong reciprocal reference. This reference is also articulated in the formulation of the shared identity to such an extent that the parts are connected by a continuous roof which, through an opening, forms a central courtyard. The “composition” follows the “figure-ground” principle of landscape space and built structure, which makes use of the coherence of this efficient pattern.
The building’s triangular footprint makes an important contribution to the relationship to outdoor space, as there is an unrestricted view of the surrounding green space from all the rooms along the facade. The wedge of outdoor space dynamizes the opening of the “House of Schools” towards the park, underlining the basic characteristic of the campus as the interplay of built volumes and open space. It was important to us to avoid canyons of buildings or fronts, and to ensure that views of the distance are produced from all points in the “House”.

The layout of the functions in the building follows the logic of positioning workplaces along the facades so that they have a view outside. The seminar rooms are placed at the points of the building so that they exploit the geometry. The core zones required (WC groups, storage, archive etc.) are in the dark areas.

The meeting rooms are organised around an open courtyard. This produces am open view outside and, importantly, offers the possibility of natural ventilation. The arrangement of the meeting rooms and the courtyard produces the building’s centre of communication, as it were. The terraces in front of the meeting units are a special asset; on the accessible roof they are generously dimensioned, allowing classes to be held outdoors.

The facades are divided in a balanced way into open and closed areas and a playfully laid out vertical structure, which allows the functions of the differently sized spaces behind to be recognised. Deep, articulated reveals were chosen in order to give the buildings a certain plasticity. An edge of the facade of one of the buildings also relates to the Biology Centre complex, together with which it generates a defined courtyard, making the urban integration of this unit appear in a sense self-evident.