Centre Haselstauden Dornbirn: Architectural Integration in Austria
Cukrowicz Nachbaur Architekten completes a new educational and recreational facility in Dornbirn.
1Project Overview and Scope
The Centre Haselstauden in Dornbirn, Austria, was completed in 2025 by the firm Cukrowicz Nachbaur Architekten. Spanning a total area of 1519 square meters, the project serves as a multi-functional facility. It integrates gymnasium space, educational zones, and day care services, reflecting a complex programmatic requirement within a single architectural development site.
2Urban Ensemble Strategy
The design strategy focuses on creating a balanced architectural ensemble by introducing two new buildings. These structures share a consistent square shape but vary in height to maintain visual harmony. They are positioned to complement the neighboring church, the existing technical school, and the elementary school, effectively unifying the local civic landscape.
3Materiality and Construction
The construction utilizes a combination of wood and concrete, emphasizing structural durability and aesthetic warmth. These materials were selected to align with modern sustainability standards and the local architectural vernacular. The project documentation highlights the use of specific products, such as those from the manufacturer Arper, to furnish the interior spaces.
4Multidisciplinary Engineering Collaboration
The project involved extensive collaboration across various engineering disciplines to ensure structural and environmental performance. Gbd ZT GmbH provided civil engineering consulting, while KuB Fassadentechnik OG managed facade technical requirements. Additionally, Ingenieurbüro Hiebeler + Mathis OG handled electrical systems, and Spektrum Bauphysik oversaw environmental sustainability, ensuring the building meets rigorous technical and energy standards.
5Landscape and Interior Design
Landscape architecture was managed by Vogt Landscape, focusing on the exterior integration of the two buildings within the site. Interior design efforts were led by Monika Heiss Farbe&Design, who focused on the functional and aesthetic quality of the internal environments. Project management was executed by Albrecht Baumanagement GmbH to oversee the construction timeline.
6Architectural Context and Typology
Categorized under educational architecture and gymnasium facilities, the project addresses the specific needs of the Haselstauden district. By grouping diverse functions like day care and sports training into one site, the architects have optimized land use. This approach is typical for contemporary Austrian public infrastructure projects aiming for high-density community utility.
7Design Team and Leadership
The lead architects for the project were Andreas Cukrowicz and Anton Nachbaur-Sturm. They directed a design team comprising Oliver King and Lea Stegherr. This leadership team ensured that the architectural vision remained consistent throughout the development phases, from initial conceptualization to the final completion of the buildings in the year 2025.
8Significance of the Development
The completion of Centre Haselstauden represents a significant addition to Dornbirn’s public infrastructure. By balancing height variations and geometric consistency, the project successfully bridges the gap between historical church architecture and modern educational facilities. It serves as a model for how new construction can enhance existing urban clusters through thoughtful spatial planning.