The construction site of the ARNDT 88 is located in the immediate vicinity of some high-rise buildings that are a relic of Vienna's 1960s architecture. They vary in height and stand out from the surrounding green spaces. Therefore, we responded to all these factors in this project and positioned it in such a way that it developed an impressive design language. We did not want to build an "average" new building in an average location, but rather stand out from the otherwise "mass-produced" buildings. That's why we fought for the unique architecture and balconies for a long time. We wanted to create an experience of countryside and city: the residents enjoy their open and green spaces, as well as the urban infrastructure.
The project features an outstanding "corner tower," which serves as a reference to the historical corner houses in Vienna. At the same time, it considers the height development of the neighboring buildings towards the west. The corner tower is a distinctive yet unobtrusive and delicate landmark for the surroundings. The tower and the seemingly floating wooden balconies not only connect nature with the city, but also the open sky with Meidling. They bring warmth to the city, and even the ceilings and walls are made of wood to offer an inviting image to the viewer from the street. The intensively green inner courtyard, with its community garden, serves as another centerpiece of the building and creates a microclimate for the residents.
By immensely increasing the usable floor space, it became possible to redensify within the city and deliver urgently needed living space. This project also stands out in terms of sustainability as it runs on ultra-low energy requirements. This architectural contribution to Viennese residential culture sets new standards both visually and ecologically. For more greenery in the city, we have made a detail for the green roofs. We have also greened the neighboring fire wall, not only for aesthetic reasons but also for ecological purposes. The inner courtyard has also been given a special design – a strong green covering was used here in order to create an oasis in the urban jungle for the residents of Arndtstraße 88.
The building is characterized by two main features. Firstly, the unique shape of the "Tower" contributes to its distinctive appearance. Secondly, great attention was paid to creating a façade design that is both varied and interesting. Notably, the balconies have a slightly curved shape, which adds a touch of uniqueness to the building's exterior. Furthermore, the use of different materials and colors in the façade design creates a visually appealing and eye-catching effect. As a result, this is apparently dissolved and the building can have an effect on the viewer without, however, radiating threateningness and harshness. In order to bring some warmth into an otherwise very gray city, wood was used for the balconies. The building radiates cosiness into its surroundings.
Arndt88 became a eye-catcher in the neighborhood instead of just another new building cube. Through its density and extensive greenery in the courtyard, a microclimate effect unlike any other is created in the middle of Meidling. Everyone benefits from the house, not only visually, but also through the preservation of the pharmacy on the ground floor and the street-side balconies that bring life and natural materials to this suburban corner.
Armin Mohsen Daneshgar was born in Southern Khorasan province, Iran in 1968 , He did his masters and PhD in architecture at Vienna University of Technology in 1999 and 2002. During his studies, he was recruited as a lecturer in architecture by the university on the invitation of William Alsop, the head of the Architectural Design and Construction Institute. His teaching experiences continued by teaching as visiting lecturer at University of New York, HKUST in Hong Kong, WAIT in Australia and universities in Morocco and elsewhere. Meanwhile he tried to enter the professional field by participating in international architectural competitions as well as establishing his own personal office. He acquired the first rank in Obere Amtshausgasse residential complex competition in 2002 which opened the way for establishing an office in Vienna and starting his professional career.