project : Europan 16 – bio-based idiolect
type : European One Stage Open Competition
location : Linz - Austria
client : City of Linz, EBS & OEBB (site owners)
area : 19.2 ha (study area), 4 prototypes (project area)
result : 1st prize
‘Bio-based Idiolect’ recognizes the opportunities found in ‘Froschberg’ and ambitiously tackles this multifaceted design challenge. The vision is taking the future and demographic changes into account and suggests a moderate densification where living, working and sharing overlap. Resilience, flexibility and inclusivity are key qualities. The private, public and in-between spaces are consciously re-evaluated and designed to enhance spatial experience with a full spectrum of social ambiences and sharing possibilities. The concept gracefully bridges the old with the new, which gives the neighbourhood a distinct and consistent character. Approaching the expansion from within results in four replicable prototypes of an inviting architectural language. Their layouts are enriched and offer a variety of units. An additive approach unlocks their full potential and overcomes demolition and material waste. Slow mobility is prioritized over cars and the rich green landscape becomes accessible to the public. Bio-based materials are combined with a circularity strategy and strengthen a vibrant revitalized neighbourhood for decades to come.