Existing fabric as a resource. The city as a scale.

Existing Fabric as a Resource. The City as a Scale.

With Francis, Delugan Meissl Associated Architects and Josef Weichenberger Architects embrace conversion rather than new construction, further developing an existing structure for new uses and new relationships within the urban fabric.

Delugan Meissl Associated Architects (DMAA) and Josef Weichenberger Architects (JWA) have reorganized Vienna’s Franz-Josefs railway station and the former Bank Austria building under the name Francis through selective demolition, refurbishment, and vertical extension. The previously inward-looking complex has been opened up: new pedestrian connections link the neighborhoods of Spittelau and Lichtental, while a plaza above the railway tracks connects Julius-Tandler-Platz, Spittelauer Platz, and Lichtentaler Platz. The mirrored façade has been replaced with a satin-finished stainless steel façade, the base of the building has been opened up, and the dominant external staircase has been removed. New terraces, as well as public and semi-public spaces, complement the existing building structure.

The building’s structural framework from the 1970s was retained and became the foundation for its redevelopment. Based on a digital analysis of the existing fabric, the structure was adapted to meet contemporary requirements and extended by two additional floors. The existing skeletal construction allowed for flexible office layouts with generous ceiling heights and access to outdoor spaces. New ground-floor uses, barrier-free access, bicycle infrastructure, and an underground logistics and service system strengthen the building’s connection to the surrounding city and transform the former standalone structure into an integrated component of the Althan Quarter.

© Barbara Jahn