Educational building sustainability: Strategies for Expanding Schools in Vienna's Urban Context.

This thesis explores a project realised for a competition organised by the University of Vienna in collaboration with the municipality and companies operating in the green building sector, with a particular interest in the use of wood. The project involves the extension of a primary school located in Knöllgasse, Vienna, to include a new middle school that will accommodate approximately 400 students. The aim is to create modern and flexible educational spaces, suitable for future pedagogical changes, such as small group learning and afternoon care. The new facility of approximately 4,500 m² will include multifunctional classrooms, a gymnasium, outdoor recreational spaces and a library with an open reading area. Special attention is paid to the quality of the environment, with wood as the main material due to its ecological qualities and tactile and atmospheric characteristics, ideal for educational spaces. The project, located in Vienna's 10th district, fits into an urban context characterised by significant buildings such as Harry Glück's terraced house and Rüdiger Lainer's ‘House with verandas’. The new school will be located to the north of the existing building, preserving the existing green spaces and trees. The outdoor areas will be organised in such a way as to separate spaces for primary and secondary schools, optimising the use of space during school breaks. A key element is the functional separation between the gymnasium and the school complex, allowing independent use of the gymnasium during the evenings and weekends, without access to the entire school building. The structure will be built with prefabricated wooden elements, reducing construction time and environmental impact, thanks to modern timber construction techniques. The project uses advanced technologies for energy efficiency, including facades with thermal insulation, natural ventilation and green roofs to improve rainwater management. Occupant safety is ensured through strategically placed escape routes. In conclusion, the project is an advanced example of green building, combining sustainability, energy efficiency and modern urban architecture. The use of wood as the main material proves to be an ideal solution to the challenges of contemporary urban design, with a focus on the regeneration of the existing context and the creation of functional and liveable spaces.