Simmering, Vienna
Coop Himmelb(l)au

Photography © Simmering, Vienna

Vienna's history is preserved and a new urban center begun

When four industrial gasometers (storage tanks for Vienna's gas supply) became obsolete, they left huge masonry shells behind. In this project, the landmark shells were converted into a new urban center that includes apartments, a youth hostel, a performance hall, shopping mall, movie center, and more. Utilizing complex technical solutions, the architect devised an entirely separate concrete structure within the restored masonry cylinder to support 13 stories of apartments, shops, and offices, and a massive circular foundation wall enclosing a 3,000-seat auditorium. All housing units were rented by the completion of the project, and there has been only positive feedback from tenants. In addition, the event hall has been commended for its functionality. But most notably, the exceptionally beautiful and unusual architecture of this project spells success, putting this small town 10 minutes from the center of Vienna distinctly on the map.

For more images please see the November 2002 issue or Architectural Record.

The Winners: Abercrombie & Fitch | Allsteel | Cellular Operations | Gateshead Millenium Bridge | Multi-Use Centre | Paul Brown Stadium | Texas Children's Hospital | Toys "R" Us | Trumpf Customer & Technology Center | Univ. of Penn. Dept. of Facilities and Real Estate | Valeo Electrical Systems

The Finalists: Arcs de Seine | Boeing\ Leadership Center | Gasometer B | Hansen Construction Office | ING Direct | KeySpan Park Stadium | Matha Stewart Living

Unbuilt Projects: BMW Event and Delivery Center | Hollister Headquarters

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