The International Music Academy of the Principality of Liechtenstein has relocated to new premises at the entrance of the Nendeln municipality. The institution now occupies the Hagen House, a historic court complex dating from the first half of the 19th century, which has been expertly transformed by Cukrowicz Nachbaur Architects from Bregenz for its new musical purpose.
The court estate was constructed in 1837 by Joseph Anton Seger, a master builder from Vaduz, and represents one of five comparable building projects designed by Seger. From 1864 to 1912, the complex served as a postal station for the entire Liechtenstein region. The ensemble has been under monument protection since 1988, preserving its historical significance for future generations.
The historic complex consists of a classicist double residential house, a stable barn, a small washhouse, and a small shooting lodge located at the edge of the property. The architects added a new building using materials that complement the existing structures, creating a central courtyard framed by the three original buildings and the new addition. The hillside location creates a one-story height difference between the street level and the courtyard.
Both the residential house and the former stable barn are oriented with their long sides along the street and are accessed from the ground floor at street level. The residential house underwent careful renovation that preserved the original room layout and atmosphere while respecting the existing structure. Student living and practice rooms were created on the ground floor and first floor, while the attic was converted into a loft apartment for professors.
The former barn, originally built as a pillar stable, is set back slightly from the street and forms a forecourt area. The first floor, with its open roof structure, provided ideal conditions for use as a concert hall and was adapted accordingly. The bright, high-ceilinged space accommodates up to 120 people for performances. The architects reinterpreted the historic wooden cladding on the facade using adjustable wooden slats, giving the building a more introverted appearance.
Access to the concert hall is provided through the new court house, which serves as the social center of the academy with its foyer, service functions, and communal lounge space. The new building is connected underground to the residential house and can be accessed through the terraced outdoor area during public events and concerts. The overall complex is integrated with its surroundings through various garden themes in the outdoor spaces, which were designed by Vogt Landscape Architects from Zurich.
According to local press reports from 2020, the total budget for the comprehensive renovation and transformation project was approximately 9 million Swiss francs. This substantial investment reflects the commitment to preserving architectural heritage while adapting it for contemporary cultural and educational use, ensuring the historic Hagen House continues to serve the community in a meaningful way for years to come.
