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The idea for Pracht-Werk came from the need to reduce land use, CO₂ emissions, and the neglect of historic buildings. Instead of building on new land, Ulreich Bauträger focused on using the potential of what already exists. Together with the City of Vienna and local stakeholders, a quality-assured architectural competition was held. This participatory process led to a concept that combines careful restoration, rooftop extension, and modern energy upgrades—transforming a rundown 19th-century building into a forward-looking model for sustainable urban living.
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Pracht-Werk blends seamlessly into its urban surroundings by respecting and enhancing the existing cityscape. The rooftop extension is set back, creating a tiered silhouette that visually recedes—allowing the historic facade to remain dominant. This careful architectural choreography makes the modern addition appear to “float” above the original structure. Elements of the late-19th-century facade that were lost over time were reconstructed with attention to detail, restoring the building’s historic character. At the rear, the formerly sealed courtyard was greened, offering communal outdoor space. Even the sloped roof above the courtyard wing was planted, creating a climate-effective layer that strengthens the ecological and visual integration of the project.
Pracht-Werk applies a holistic sustainability strategy: the heating demand was reduced by 68% (from 122 to 38.9 kWh/m²a) through insulation of facades, basement ceilings, and firewalls. Old windows were replaced with passive house-grade glazing, and sunshades were added. The building was switched to 100% district heating and equipped with a 26 kWp photovoltaic system. Waste heat is used to dry earth-contact components. The inner courtyard and even the pitched roof were greened, enhancing microclimate and biodiversity. These measures avoided land sealing and preserved embodied energy. Materials were chosen for durability and energy efficiency. Pracht-Werk was nominated for the Energy Globe Award 2024 for its exemplary contribution to climate protection and sustainable urban development.
Pracht-Werk is a future-oriented renovation project that combines the careful restoration of a historic building with intelligent urban densification and modern energy efficiency. Its defining strength lies in the creation of a living environment where people feel truly comfortable and valued. We are proud that residents have embraced the space—not only because of its architectural quality, but because it meets their real everyday needs. This includes barrier-free access, thoughtfully designed apartments, communal outdoor areas, and improved energy comfort. The rooftop extension was set back to preserve the building’s silhouette, while lost facade elements were reconstructed with care. Greenery in the courtyard and even on the roof enhances well-being and the local microclimate. Pracht-Werk is not only a contribution to climate action—it is a human-centered, architectural statement that proves how heritage and innovation can go hand in hand to create vibrant, livable urban spaces.
What made Pracht-Werk truly special was the collaborative spirit from the start. The architectural competition, held with the city and district, created a process where residents, local stakeholders, planners, and authorities all felt involved. This inclusive dialogue shaped a result that balances heritage, design, and livability. It proved that meaningful architect
Pracht-Werk” demonstrates how inner-city densification, architectural heritage, and climate action can work in harmony. Without sealing any land, the late-19th-century building was carefully renovated and extended upwards, increasing the usable space by 85.6%. The heating demand was reduced from 122 to 38.9 kWh/m²a, cutting annual CO₂ emissions by 92.96 tons. A 26 kWp photovoltaic system and connection to 100% district heating ensure long-term energy efficiency. Green courtyards, barrier-free access, and high-quality design enhance the urban environment. As a replicable model, “Pracht-Werk” shows how sustainability and aesthetics can be integrated in historic urban contexts.
