historic center revitalization building rehabilitation

Densification in the historical center and recovery of the building heritage

Recently completed, the densification in the historic center is a project in the Alpine region in Austria, near the hill where the ruins of the Alt-Ems castle stand. Part of a larger program of redevelopment and densification of the historic center, the new project, by the Austrian studio MWArchitekten, occupies the site of a wooden building that was destroyed in 2020.

Recovery of the building heritage of a historic center

Located behind the arch of the castle square, under the ruins of Alt-Ems Castle, the original center of the city is undergoing a comprehensive development process. The densification of the historic center and the building requalified by the MWArchitekten studio becomes emblematic of this urban area redevelopment: it is strategically positioned from an urban planning perspective and plays a fascinating role from a landscape perspective. We are indeed in the confluence area of the Ems and Salzbach rivers, where mills and sawmills were in operation from the 16th to the 20th century. This intervention is one of the most significant renovation projects in the area and replaces a wooden extension that was destroyed in a fire in 2020.

The interior of the recovered building fully exploits the volume of the reinterpreted spaces

The cut continues inside. The staircase, designed as a connecting element, follows the shape of the roof of the previously destroyed building. The resulting alternation between low and high spaces creates a dynamic sequence of environments. Although the result of the architectural project is fresh and linear, the two units, intended for residential and commercial use, offer a welcoming atmosphere. The main structure fully exploits the maximum volume possible: in the front wall and in the sloping attic of the third floor, the rooms reach their peak in terms of height and view.

Sustainability, energy efficiency, and comfort of spaces in architectural design

The interior and exterior blend together. The atmosphere of the wooden building is characterized by the energetic interaction between wood, concrete, and the complete finishes of the walls with building materials in clay and clay plaster. The balancing effect of natural building materials complements the environmental comfort and the ecological approach of the building.

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MWArchitekten

Schützenstraße 4e6845 Hohenems, Austria