Wolkenheim
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Studio: Bachelor Design Interconnected Architecture
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Professor: Berthold Manfred
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Year: 2023
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University: TU Wien
Redefining Urban Living – My Bachelor Project
Wolkenheim introduces an innovative approach to sustainable urban living, where the concept of a floating structure challenges traditional architectural norms.
Open Spaces
Integrating open green spaces both beneath and atop Wolkenheim was central to the design, aimed at restoring balance in urban environments. These spaces create vital oases where nature blends seamlessly with daily life, offering residents a refreshing connection to the outdoors often missing in dense cityscapes. The elevated structure on 12-meter pillars opens up the ground below, transforming it into a community-focused environment, while the rooftop serves as a lush, green retreat.
Additionally, 80% of the apartments are designed as duplexes or maisonettes, creating spacious, multi-level living environments. The design also features continuous pathways throughout the building, seamlessly connecting all areas, and promoting fluid circulation and interaction among residents, enhancing the sense of openness and accessibility.
Flexible Living.
Wolkenheim apartments feature modular walls, allowing residents to merge two units into one or split one into two. This adaptable design supports changing needs, ensuring personalized, future-proof living spaces.
The 6m x 6m section
Construciton
Wolkenheim is elevated 12 meters above ground using a Fachwerk framework, reinforced by slender yet robust structural pillars. The horizontal structure is crafted from advanced wooden panels (KSE 228 and KSE 230), employing a Fachwerk-inspired system for optimal load distribution and stability. This design combines traditional principles with modern materials, ensuring strength, sustainability, and architectural elegance.
The apartments in Wolkenheim were designed with a strong emphasis on flexibility and interaction. By integrating the pathways on every second floor, I got a circulation system that prioritizes connectivity and maximizes the use of residential space. This approach allows for uninterrupted living spaces above and below the pathways, resulting in spacious, multi-level apartments.
The open space below invites social interaction and community activities, while the rooftop garden improves air quality, regulates building temperature, and provides a calming escape for residents. Together, these green spaces enhance the overall living experience, promoting well-being, sustainability, and a deeper connection to the environment.
