Delugan Meissl Associated Architects (DMAA) and Josef Weichenberger Architects (JWA) have successfully completed the transformation of Vienna's Franz-Josefs-Bahnhof terminus station into a vibrant mixed-use development called Althan Quartier Francis. The project, which spans 60,000 square meters and was completed in 2024, represents a groundbreaking approach to urban regeneration that prioritizes environmental sustainability while creating a new centerpiece for the surrounding district.
The architectural intervention involved converting what was previously an impassable barrier in the center of the district into a transparently permeable urban hub. Rather than complete demolition, the architects chose a strategic approach of selective demolition, redevelopment, and vertical expansion of the existing terminus station and office building above it. This methodology was driven by significant environmental considerations, allowing the project to save considerable amounts of CO2 emissions compared to traditional new construction approaches.
The transformation has created a mixed-use complex that seamlessly integrates retail spaces with other urban functions, establishing the Francis development as the cornerstone of the new Althan Quartier. The project demonstrates how adaptive reuse can breathe new life into underutilized transportation infrastructure while maintaining the urban fabric's continuity. The architectural design emphasizes transparency and permeability, ensuring that the once-isolated station now serves as a connecting element within the broader neighborhood context.
The project involved an extensive collaborative effort, with structural engineering provided by Spirk & Partner, lighting design by Bartenbach, and building physics consultation by Pilz und Partner. The HVACR systems were handled by ICE Project Group, while facade design was managed by Dr Pfeiler GmbH. Additional specialties included fire safety consulting by Brandrat, surveying by Vermessung Meixner, and traffic planning by Traffix. The comprehensive project management was overseen by IC, with Eristalis Holding GmbH serving as the client.
Located in Vienna's Alsergrund district, the Althan Quartier Francis represents a new model for sustainable urban development that balances historical preservation with contemporary needs. The project's success lies in its ability to transform a defunct transportation terminal into a thriving mixed-use destination while significantly reducing the environmental impact typically associated with large-scale urban development projects. This approach sets a precedent for similar adaptive reuse projects across Europe and demonstrates the potential for sustainable urban regeneration.
