Vienna West High School | SHIBUKAWA EDER ARCHITECTS ZT GmbH

A former military barrack was converted into a modern high school. Half of the main building was demolished and extended with a terraced building around a central courtyard. The courtyard offers various seating areas for relaxing and learning outside the classrooms.

The new transparent main entrance in the historical façade invites the view into the green courtyard. All the communication areas are situated around the courtyard with room-high windows. As a contrast all the classrooms are located along the outer façade with horizontal windows to create quiet atmosphere.

Modern room concept allows different teaching approaches. While the junior classes are taught in clusters, the senior classes are organized according to the department system. The students have their own lounges, so called “Home bases”, which serve as study areas as well as Chill-out areas and social meeting space.

In order to avoid overheating in the summer, a night ventilation system is used for cooling. Electricity is generated by a photovoltaic system on the roof.

The main building is connected to a former horse-riding hall, which were converted into two gymnastic halls.