UNIPARK Nonntal
Faculty of culture and social sciences, University of Salzburg
The new construction for the faculty of culture and social sciences in Salzburg contains office and seminar areas for 350 teachers and 5.500 students, 4 auditoriums, a library, a bistro and an underground car park.
A square building with a side length of 87 meters is situated at the edge of the town. It is arranged as a solitaire in its heterogeneous environment to strengthen the appearance of the University. In order to preserve the pedestrian connection between the city centre and the district Nonntal the main part of the building is lifted and held by a smaller base and pillars in a free standing position.
Transparency in form of glass walls is used to create an atmosphere of mental openness and provide stimulating learning situations. Copper colored vertical solar shading elements which can be controlled individually create a lively façade.
The roof, designed as a fifth façade, with seminar and cafeteria pavilions offers an open space for students and visitors with a fantastic view to Salzburg's fortress and the surrounding mountainous landscape in the background.
Ecology:
One of the largest geothermal energy systems of Austria is used as a long-term thermal energy storage for the heat exchanger. Primary energy saving of approx. 50% is achieved by thermal component activation of the exposed concrete ceiling which is used for heating and cooling.
Competition 1st price 2005
Realization 2008 ñ 2011
Building Opening October 2011
Floor space 17.500 sqm
