Recognition

Lam Architektur ZT GmbH / DI Thomas PROKSCH, Büro LAND IN SICHT / DI Elmar Hess

Graz / Vienna / Graz

Overview of submitted design briefs

Competition project team:

Arch. DI Nicole Lam
DI Thomas Proksch
Arch. Dipl.-Ing. Dr. techn. Till Lensing
DI Christian Buresch
DI Daniela Walder-Weissberg

Participating consultants:

SK Planung GmbH
Rosenfelder & Höfler Consulting Engineers GmbH & Co KG

Jury evaluation

The project-specific recommendations from the first stage of the competition have only been partially addressed.

Baukünstlerische und künstlerische Lösung

The proposal shifts between intentional restraint and interchangeable ‘memory architecture’. As a result, the design remains generic and is not seen as innovative.

The historical wall on the roll call square is not preserved in its entirety as an archaeological feature and is partially replaced by an embankment. The semantic link, implemented as an imprint in concrete on the ground, appears superficial in terms of content and evokes unwanted associations. Although the ‘Room of Silence’ is better positioned and more accessible than in the first stage of the competition, its architectural language remains underdeveloped. The access ramp introduces bidirectional movement, even in this version of the project, thus conflicting with the contemplative intent of the space.

Urban planning solution

The proposed free-growing hedge as a boundary to the industrial area lacks creativity. Path layouts and, in particular, the spatial organisation are insufficiently developed.

Ultimately, the intended reference to the historical camp layout and the Bergkristall tunnel system is not clearly realised in practise. In terms of urban planning, the proposal therefore lacks a recognisable relationship to the historic site.

Functional solution

While some functional requirements from the master plan are met, several recommendations have not been implemented fully or effectively.

The proposed use of hot air to remove vegetation is not considered appropriate. The plan for the ‘Room of Silence’ is not convincing and its integration into the overall concept remains weak.

Sustainability and energy efficiency:

The plans and texts contain a statement on sustainability, e.g. building services.

Cost estimate

The submitted cost estimate is plausible and transparent. The estimated costs fall below the specified budget.

Implementation stages

As presented, the implementation phases for the Langenstein I construction site do not correspond to the actual construction sequence (from the stone crusher to the arrival area).