Sleeping Beauty in Gersthof

The one-hundred-year-old orthopaedic hospital in Gersthof will be refurbished from the ground up and adapted into a contemporary school complex. Our design carefully wakes the protected monument from its deep sleep to become a contemporary, transparent school building with a variety of open spaces.

»This architectural specimen between late Secession, Art Déco, and Expressionism obviously enjoyed an in-house appreciation at any early point and has also, despite necessary interventions to meet the needs of its time, been fondly preserved to this day.«

Friedrich Achleitner in “Österreichische Architektur im 20. Jahrhundert,” vol. III/2

The former orthopaedic hospital in the 18th district is an architectural gem in the capital, albeit still rather unknown to many Viennese people. This characteristic building from the 1920s, however, with its long usage as a hospital, represents many challenges for its transformation into a contemporary school. In particular, the wing depth of just five metres approximately and the circulation spaces inside seem problematic at first glance. Instead of imposing a typical modern cluster school structure onto the historical substance, we unlock the unique potential of this charming architecture with a few strategic interventions.

From hospital to an open school

Independent orientation of the pupils and short distances within the building are central to an optimally functioning school. In order to ensure smooth circulation between the five storeys, we make use of the existing main staircase in the front wing and insert a new generous staircase in the back part of the building. In the layout the spacious staircases are offset diagonally and form two vertical cores. We open the poorly-lit central corridors, typical for this era, with glazed doors and niches in the inner walls. Scattered recess zones complement this lively artery on all levels; the existing balconies and terraces enhance this flexible free space all the more.

»Upon closer look, one quickly discovers the special charm and potential of the building.«

Robert Diem, Franz&Sue partner

»We cite the historic tilework of the existing staircase with a new ornamental tile pattern in the circulation areas and break rooms. The elegant atmosphere is enhanced with soft furniture and parquet floors in the classrooms.«

Suvi Repo, project leader of the competition team

Green as far as the eye can see

One of the strongest features of this building is its surroundings – embedded in a park landscape from fairy tales, ideal for playing children, teachers on walks, and dreamy views. We intensify this relationship to the green space by activating all balconies and loggias on the east side; the sunny zone with loggias to the south is preserved. The outdoor terrain is lowered by about a metre to facilitate access to the outside on ground level. The garden floor with the cafeteria, a common zone, and a library leads to an arcade court with seating steps, where one can take a rest or stroll right out into the garden.