WU Vienna – Lecture Hall Center as a Multifunctional Hub
The project Lecture Hall Center of the Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU Vienna) is a prime example of how architectural clarity, structural innovation, and functional diversity can combine to shape an academic hub. As a central facility of the WU campus, it serves as a place of learning, research, and encounter.
The building complex is divided into three core areas: the Teaching Center, the Department Building, and the Cafeteria as a connecting element.
Teaching Center
At the heart lies the main building with the Audimax, complemented by the adjacent lecture wing housing three large lecture halls. The staggered building volumes reflect the spatial and functional requirements of lecture hall geometry. Key elements include spacious escape staircases and a prestressed pedestrian bridge leading to the cafeteria’s green rooftop – inviting students to study and relax outdoors.
Department
The office wing serves as a working and research area for the university’s academic departments. With five upper floors, a central atrium, and a hybrid load-bearing structure featuring prominent slanted columns, the building combines structural clarity and efficiency. Its partially green roofscape links it to the cafeteria and offers additional recreational space.
Cafeteria
As a central connector between the Teaching Center and Department, the cafeteria plays a key role in campus life. Its three levels ensure smooth access and circulation. Structural highlights include a double floor system for load and height compensation, thermally separated parapets, and optimized slab details – all contributing to efficiency, performance, and sustainability.
Outdoor Spaces
The campus’s open spaces are designed for interaction and quality of stay: reflective water elements, colorful exposed concrete installations, seating, extensive bike parking, sport zones, sound installations, and carefully composed lighting features create a vibrant and welcoming environment.
📍 Project: Lecture Hall Center, WU Vienna
📐 Scope of Work: Structural Design
🏢 Architecture: BUSarchitektur ZT GmbH
🎓 Inauguration: October 4, 2013
📸 Photos: © Nikolaus Krinner
🏆 Award: Ernst A. Plischke Prize 2014
