Alexander Wetschko
A hotel complex near the shot-tower located in the eastern bay of Lake Woerthersee is proposed starting from the theoretical consideration of the hotel typology, the exploration of the selected reference projects and the analysis of the construction site. The aim is to use the property for tourism and to open the natural landscape for the public. The draft is based on an in-depth analysis of the conditions of urban development and the surrounding landscape, plus a critical appraisal of the historical development of what is known as “Wörthersee architecture”. The property is suited for the proposed development because of its unique location in the countryside and its vicinity to the centre of Klagenfurt, Carinthia’s capital city. The dialogue between technical monument and contemporary architecture makes it possible to create an ensemble with specific USP. The dilapidated building parts will be removed and the shot tower that is under monument protection, will be exposed as a prominent and strikingly individual landmark. The structure will be complemented by a sensitive handling of the architectural and topographic conditions. The historical concept of restaurant with terrace is taken up again and a new building will replace the café/restaurant that was closed decades ago. Targeted intervention will connect the plot of land to the shores of Lake Wörthersee and the recreational area of Kreuzbergl. The qualities of the landscape, the interaction between old and new, the staged view, the dialogue between the interior and the outdoors as design-determining topics and the holistic approach make it possible to create a distinct architectural structure that has evolved in and from this location.
The master thesis Schrotturmhotel was supervised by Andreas Lichtblau (Institute of Housing).
