Kuwait’s historic state residence in Vienna has been sustainably revitalised
The historic residence of the State of Kuwait in Vienna has undergone extensive renovation and functional expansion. The project combines a sensitive approach to the existing classical building with contemporary architecture, sustainable building services and a prestigious redesign.
Preserving historical quality whilst developing the building for the modern era
The revitalisation project centred on the aim of preserving the architectural quality of the existing building whilst simultaneously creating the conditions for contemporary use. The historic interiors were carefully restored and the floor plans reorganised to improve functionality. High-quality materials, improved fire protection and barrier-free access contribute to a sustainable overall concept.
The architectural interventions are deliberately integrated into the existing building fabric. The newly designed perimeter wall also combines historical and new elements and responds sensitively to the topographical conditions of the site.
Extension blends into its surroundings
A key component of the project is the new access and extension concept. An underground car park integrated into the slope provides six car parking spaces, including electric charging points. It is connected to the building via barrier-free access and is embedded in the garden landscape by a roof area with extensive greenery.
This preserves the prestigious character of the site whilst simultaneously meeting the functional requirements of a modern residence.
Sustainable technology for the historic building stock
The redevelopment of existing buildings makes an important contribution to resource-efficient construction. In the case of the State of Kuwait’s residence, the preservation and refurbishment of the historic building fabric were combined with optimisation of the building envelope and modern building services.
A heat pump with a capacity of 75 kW and a photovoltaic system comprising 20 modules with a total output of 9 kWp support the building’s energy-efficient supply. The green roof on the underground car park further contributes to the high-quality integration of the extension into the outdoor space.
Comprehensive expertise from the DELTA Group
Delta Pods Architects was responsible for the architectural planning and design author’s supervision. Further services included the AVA (Architectural, Structural and Engineering Review), Construction supervision for the building trades, HVAC and electrical engineering, as well as planning and site coordination in accordance with the BauKG (Health and Safety Coordination). Structural engineering and building physics were handled by VATTER & Partner.
The result is a high-quality overall ensemble that combines historic building fabric worthy of preservation, contemporary architectural interventions and sustainable building services.
Project facts
Project: Renovation and extension of the Residence of the State of Kuwait
Location: Vienna
Building: four above-ground storeys and one underground storey
Extension: Underground car park with six car parking spaces and electric charging points
Photovoltaics: 20 modules, total output 9 kWp
Heat pump: 75 kW
Services provided by the DELTA Group:
- Overall project management on behalf of the client
- Architectural Planning and Design Author’s Supervision
- Tendering and contract award for all trades
- Construction Supervision for structural works, MEP and electrical engineering
- Planning and site coordination in accordance with the Austrian Construction Contract Act (BauKG)
- Structural Engineering
- Building Physics
Image credit © Delta Pods Architects