University campus in Krems an der Donau,
designed by Baumschlager Eberle Architekten
In Krems an der Donau, in the heart of Lower Austria, a development has emerged that redefines the concept of a university campus. A city with a rich university tradition has been enriched with a space that combines state-of-the-art architecture with a responsible approach to the environment and future generations. The expansion of the educational complex, designed by the Vienna branch of Baumschlager Eberle Architekten, is an example of conscious architecture - mature, balanced, yet open to the changing needs of the academic world.
Expansion of an educational complex in Krems an der Donau - a campus that inspires learning, collaboration and living in harmony with nature
Photo by Maximilian Haidacher © Baumschlager Eberle Architekten
more than buildings - a shared space for dialogue
The new iteration of the campus features four buildings that form a cohesive yet diverse urban structure. Designed for the three institutions - Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Krems University for Continuing Education and IMC Fachhochschule Krems - the buildings offer modern, flexible spaces to meet the needs of teaching, research and collaboration. The common areas - lecture halls, seminar rooms, a science center or foyer - are located on the first floors of the three connected buildings, promoting integration and knowledge exchange. The fourth building, a free-standing one, stands out for its independence - with its own rhythm, plaza and arcade. The complex is not simply a collection of buildings. It is an architectural manifestation of the idea of coexistence, communication and openness.
Expansion of an educational complex in Krems an der Donau
photo by Maximilian Haidacher © Baumschlager Eberle Architekten
a form that does not pass away
The project impresses with its discipline of form and subtle yet powerful language of expression. The architects drew on classic tools - geometry, rhythm, light and material - to create a composition with a clear structure and a timeless character. The building masses are compact, with vertical, windows arranged in a rhythmic grid, which gives the elevations a vertical character inspired by the classics of European architecture. The facades ' gentle setbacks introduce tension and dynamism, breaking the strict geometry. The use of matte aluminum panels in muted tones, combined with the play of light and shadow, gives the walls depth and variability - the buildings live with the time of day and the weather.
Expansion of the educational complex in Krems an der Donau - a view of the campus
© Baumschlager Eberle Architekten
interiors designed with people in mind
The openness and legibility of the form continues in the interiors. The architects relied on natural materials - wood, architectural concrete, textiles - as well as light and space. Numerous glazings open the interiors to the surrounding landscape, while bright common areas encourage spontaneous meetings. Care has also been taken with acoustics and light comfort - elements indispensable in spaces conducive to concentration and creative work. This is architecture in the spirit of modern humanism - oriented to people, their needs and the rhythm of everyday life.
Expansion of an educational complex in Krems an der Donau - in the interior, the architects relied on natural materials
photo by Maximilian Haidacher © Baumschlager Eberle Architekten
Ecology as a standard, not an add-on
The project is an example of conscious sustainable design - both technologically and socially. The buildings are equipped with modern energy systems: heat pumps, photovoltaic panels, ventilation with heat recovery. But their efficiency is also determined by thoughtful spatial organization and compact form. The project was awarded the Gold Seal of Climate Action - with a maximum score of 1,000 points, awarded by the Austrian Ministry of the Environment. The buildings' energy performance - including exceptionally low heat and primary energy requirements - places the project among the European leaders. As Julia Wildfeuer, managing director of Baumschlager Eberle Architekten in Vienna, notes :
Our realization on the Krems campus shows how energy efficiency and sustainability can be achieved through a combination of different measures. The process starts at the planning stage - with the right orientation of the compact development. The architecture sets the framework for a sustainable building that will stand the test of time. The final touch is given by technical installations. But durability is not just the sum of technical and design parameters. A building will only survive and become truly sustainable if it is appreciated.
Expansion of an educational complex in Krems an der Donau - elevation drawing
© Baumschlager Eberle Architekten
campus open to the city
What makes this project unique is its relationship with its surroundings. The campus is not an isolated enclave - on the contrary, it is an organic part of the city. The design respects the local topography, street layout and green structure. Southern terraces and semi-public spaces act as bridges between the university and Krems residents. In keeping with the latest trends in the design of educational spaces, the expansion creates an open, inclusive, social place - one that is not only a base for learning, but also a catalyst for urban life.
Expansion of educational complex in Krems an der Donau
Photo by Maximilian Haidacher © Baumschlager Eberle Architekten
recognition and the future
In a time of climate crisis and redefinition of the role of education, the Krems campus is becoming a model example of architecture for the future - not only technologically advanced, but also rooted in values. This is architecture that doesn't epitomize - but endures. Among people, in the landscape, in time.
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of Baumschlager Eberle Architekten.