The existing building stock on Bienengasse 19 in Graz consists of a block-edge structure and a green, mostly undeveloped corridor-like space that resembles an oasis among the concrete. Due to the public access requirement for pedestrians and cyclists, we made the unconventional decision to free the entire ground floor from functions and to make it available to the public. A gently bent, elongated new structure now guides passers-by through the quarter.
ground floor
The public outdoor space on the ground floor is completely freed from any private use. This creates a gentle topography, mostly green, but also paved and yet free of any hard edges. The public path thus sometimes leads to a conical square, sometimes to a playful little hill that almost touches the ground floor ceiling. This topography guides the user without being intrusive and it appeals to all senses.
The urban facade along Bienengasse reflects the Gründerzeit-style block-edge structures. However, it modernizes the traditional, reinterpreting a characteristic Gründerzeit-style, lively perforated facade. A horizontal cornice provides structuring, a variation of levels and scale. The two green residential facades facing south and west link the architecture with the spacious green area below.
elevation south
elevation north
regular floor
rooftop
HANDY
The existing building stock on Bienengasse 19 in Graz consists of a block-edge structure and a green, mostly undeveloped corridor-like space that resembles an oasis among the concrete. Due to the public access requirement for pedestrians and cyclists, we made the unconventional decision to free the entire ground floor from functions and to make it available to the public. A gently bent, elongated new structure now guides passers-by through the quarter.
ground floor
The public outdoor space on the ground floor is completely freed from any private use. This creates a gentle topography, mostly green, but also paved and yet free of any hard edges. The public path thus sometimes leads to a conical square, sometimes to a playful little hill that almost touches the ground floor ceiling. This topography guides the user without being intrusive and it appeals to all senses.
The urban facade along Bienengasse reflects the Gründerzeit-style block-edge structures. However, it modernizes the traditional, reinterpreting a characteristic Gründerzeit-style, lively perforated facade. A horizontal cornice provides structuring, a variation of levels and scale. The two green residential facades facing south and west link the architecture with the spacious green area below.
elevation south
elevation north
regular floor
rooftop
