András Pálffy – Generali Foundation

PROJECT: András Pálffy – Generali Foundation

LOCATION: Wien, Austria

YEAR: 1995

ARCHITECT / FIRM: Jabornegg - Pálffy Architects

BUYER: AIV Generali

SURFACE: 3.400 sqm

PRICE: € 3,65 Mio

DESCRIPTION:
The new building for Generali Foundation was slotted into an existing courtyard ensemble on an irregularly shaped site. The most substantial alteration to the existing ensemble was the introduction of a linear construction element to relieve static loads. This element also articulates the exhibition space into individually lit sections for a variety of uses and eliminates spatial residue. In the former factory warehouse, the central wall extending over seven floors was replaced by a new primary structure which bears the weight of the floors. The span of the floors was reduced to meet the new structural requirements. Access and utility supply lines are also housed in this primary structure. While sharp-edged concrete was used for the new load-bearing elements, the old buildings retained their uneven surfaces under a new coat of rendering. The only new façade is the glass roof providing natural illumination. Operable slats prevent sunlight from penetrating directly into the rooms; instead, large diffuser panels scatter the light.

TOTAL REPLACEMENT / DISCONTINUITY: The new functional program has completely replaced the original one.

DESCRIPTION:
The production area, located in the groundfloor of the former Habig hat factory, was converted into the new exhibition spaces of the Generali Foundation. The basement is hosting the storage areas for the foundations art collection. The upper floors offer spaces to the new library and the office accommodation.

TOTAL CONSERVATION / CONTINUITY: The investor is the property owner.

DESCRIPTION:
Economic resources for the construction were carried out by the Generali Group.

- SURFACE present EXTENSION,

PREVALENT CONSERVATION / CONTINUITY: The overall dimensions increase moderately with respect to the pre-existing surface.

- VOLUME present EXTENSION,

PREVALENT CONSERVATION / CONTINUITY: The overall dimensions increase moderately with respect to the pre-existing volume.

DESCRIPTION:
The only volume extension is a new basement to set up new storage.

PREVALENT CONSERVATION / CONTINUITY: Pre-existing spaces are prevalent with respect to new spaces.

DESCRIPTION:
The new spaces can be considered prevalent to the pre-existing spaces, except the new basement areas.

BALANCE BETWEEN CONSERVATION AND REPLACEMENT: The supporting structure is composed in a balanced way by pre-existing structures and new structures.

DESCRIPTION:
All the new constructive interventions were done in sharp edged concrete. The suspended ceiling in the exhibition hall is formed by frames covered with translucent foil.

TOTAL REPLACEMENT / DISCONTINUITY: The materials chosen for the new intervention are completely different from the pre-existing ones.

DESCRIPTION:
The materials chosen for the new architectonic intervention are in contrast to the existing material texture.

BALANCE BETWEEN CONSERVATION AND REPLACEMENT: The new intervention balances elements of continuity and discontinuity with respect to existing structures.

DESCRIPTION:
The new intervention is characterised by the new structural presence that is characterised by the use of sharp edged concrete.