Vienna Central Station
In February 2017, Swiss architectural practice Theo Hotz Partner Architekten unveiled their new platform covers for Vienna’s Central Station. The undulating steel canopies won an Architizer A+ Award in the Bus and Train Stations category in 2016.
The new sculptural roofs are part of a major overhaul of the station, which is a pivotal hub for the city’s transport network.
The designers envisaged a public transportation hub with a sculptural roof that would function both as a flagship urban project and a landmark for a district in the process of change, with the station also providing the impetus for the further development and the creation of a new municipal park.
Providing a clear iconic identity for the station, the roof comprises a folded plate structure that undulates rhythmically above the five platforms, defining striking interior and exterior spaces.
The juxtaposition between the rise and fall in one direction and the compression and expansion in the other transforms a simple platform canopy into a spectacular roof exuding a strong sense of movement.
Comprising fourteen diamond-shaped segments and five single canopies, the roof extends in an alternating wave pattern over the platforms. Each diamond roof segment consists of a space frame punctured in the centre by a rhombus-shaped skylight.
The staggered arrangement of these linked segments in turn creates diamond-shaped openings on the sides, which are enclosed by a façade of scale-like triangular glass panels to provide protection against the elements.
The angled lines of the soffits reflect those of the folded plate structure above and their triangular surfaces create a striking crystalline form that produces stunning light effects.
Images and content courtesy of Theo Hotz Partner.
Photographs © Roman Bönsch.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.