After successful completion of the course, students are able to formulate an independently chosen topic within a set framework, define appropriate working methods and tools and apply these independently. They are also able to condense comprehensive research and translate the findings into an architectural project. Furthermore, they are able to professionally process and present research results and projects.
New forms of living in existing buildings
Diplomaseminar March 2024 - March 2025 - Diploma Presentation March/April 2025
Kickoff 13.03.2024 10:00 a.m.
Application with short abstract and portfolio by 22.02.2024 to katharina.urbanek@tuwien.ac.at
The world is finished! Demolition moratorium! Stop Building Now! HouseEurope! - In view of the worsening climate crisis, the problems of resource scarcity and soil sealing, numerous initiatives are calling for a radical turnaround in construction. At the same time, there is an increasing lack of adequate and affordable housing in many places. We are confronted with an overpriced housing stock that is designed for nuclear family structures and does not meet many other needs.
In this area of tension, we want to develop strategies and, subsequently, projects that can point the way forward. Working in existing buildings is not seen as a mere ecological necessity, but also as a recourse to an extremely valuable asset. It offers opportunities to create immediate points of identification - and thus a connection to the place that forms the basis of every home.
The specific task is proposed by the students themselves. A wide range of specific situations is conceivable: Which existing structure is involved (typology, period of origin, construction method...)? What is the spatial context (city, country, Vienna, international...)? And what can "new forms of living" mean in this context? In the seminar, the individual topics enter into dialog and are developed further together.
Individual research into the existing structure and location is used to develop new spatial arrangements. At the same time, we examine specific rituals of living - such as coming home or looking out - and explore their potential for a design. Working methods, tools and presentation methods are introduced, tested and jointly reflected upon by the students.
The diploma seminar takes place over the course of a year, during which the work is developed in a continuous exchange. The specific projects are discussed in regular meetings and at the same time common questions, interests and attitudes are negotiated. An intensive summer semester with fortnightly meetings is followed by monthly meetings in the winter semester. Tina Gregoric will give feedback on the projects in interim presentations.
