HOLODECK architects

The building ensemble Zentrum für Kultur und Forschung (Centre for Culture and Research) in Mattersburg - the restructured cultural centre of 1976 – hosts important public associations and organisations like literature house, adult centre, a large performance-hall with an interlinking multipurpose foyer and a Gasthaus, a typical Austrian spot for communication and dining. Originally created to support regions with cultural social events by governor Kery and cultural councelor Mader, now it is domicile of the state library and state archive of Burgenland as well, following the political will of present governor Doskozil.

Sensitive repositioned in the park-like landscape, the overall composition surges into the steep Wulkalände beside a sweepingly inclining railway embankment, offering a generous public square to integrate the derelict, but protected area between former culture centre and still operating education and sport facilities. Expressive and sculptural volumes of the existing, exposed-concrete building as well as the structuralist northern part of the ensemble, all from the Brutalist period, are preserved as they represent Burgenland’s political history and cultural identity for the people in the region.

The drafted spatial layout follows the idea of a vivid and active space where people of all ages are welcome and love to meet. Two concrete volumes, the existing and newly built, with a 5.85m to 6.20m high glass and steel foyer in between define the inner organisation for all different functions. On the ground floor are located the performing area for about 410 visitors, exhibition and lecture spaces hosting 70 people, and dining rooms with an adjacent outer area embedded into the west lawn. On the first level office spaces, library and archive rooms find their space, connected with a bridge that guides the users above the multifunctional foyer to the different spots. On this level the outdoor area with a historic fountain invites for reading outside and enjoying the west sunlight. Most spaces offer multifunctional usage during the day and evenings. The appealing, connecting layering inside the existing and new volumes show the ensemble as a contemporary interpretation of spatial sequences, inviting guests and users to experience culture and science in a specific historic and contemporary surrounding.