Multipurpose Hall

(quoted from „emerging architecture I”, Otto Kapfinger, 2000)

Pavilion-type addition to the courtyard of a Neo-Gothic style administrative building dating from the late 19^th century. The hall, which somewhat overhangs the foundation, was positioned as far away from the old building as possible and connected to it by a glass gangway which extends to the staircase of the old fabric. The supporting framework consists of laminated trusses, covered by a ventilated tin roof which is set free from the side walls by narrow light apertures. Following the gradient of the roof, the vertical supports are set into the trusses as varying depth.

The wooden noggin wall running along the old structure adjoins the slanted roof orthogonally and tips slightly out of its vertical position. The courtyard-side long wall consists of exposed concrete, absorbs the noise from the schoolyard and forms a sharp angle with the flagstone floor, serving as the base for the somewhat wide angle of the light wooden structure.

The interior is defined by a grey floor, silver-grey panels on the concrete walls as well as by plywood, painted yellow, and by sliding elements. The north front wall is made entirely of glass and can be fully opened to the green courtyard. A complex, subtle solution for a seemingly straightforward task, which required keeping the new volume in the shady yard to a minimum and making the interior as light and roomy as possible.