This proposal for the new Wien School of Arts attempts to leave as little footprint as possible whilst maintaining most of the existing public space. Following this pursuit, the more private programs; such as the workshop and office spaces are placed underground. The more public functions are then placed above ground to interact with the surrounding public square.

Inspired by the Viennese Secession, the project makes small references to features such as decorative elements and the use of gold that was so prevalent in the movement’s art and architecture. The famous Beethoven Frieze also became an interest to the project, creating a contemporary replica using glass and the scenes of everyday life to form an ever-evolving frieze.

Looking to the Secession Building as a temple for contemporary art, the exposition hall acts as the central anchor point, becoming the main connecting space between the school of arts and the public.  Glazing on the street level allows passers-by to peer into the atrium space and discover the creative works the school has produced. Similarly, students working below have a constant visual connection to the happenings outside. The 11m high atrium offers enough space for large art installations with the glazing providing an ethereal quality to the exposition area as light changes with the passing days, influencing the atmosphere of the space.

The workshops below ground border the exposition hall on either side and cannot be seen by the public at street level, however, skylights provide natural light to each workshop. A full and void system on street level works to divide the space into three intimate public squares, at the same time offering public functions to the square and access to the school below. The result is a new Wien School of Arts that sits modestly within Am Hof Square, becoming a meeting point for contemporary art and culture, and linking the private functions of the school with the public functions of the city.