virus – infection
the historically tainted bridgehead building on linz's main square is infected by a communication virus. in the old structure, the virus conquers new space for positive communication activities. the source of infection is the new central hall with direct access from the main square. from here the spatial structure grows into every part of the old building envelope. extensions towards the public circulation areas of the main square link the structure with public space in many places.
virus – structure
the virus areas serve as horizontal and vertical circulation for all functional areas of the two formerly separate parts of the building. at the nodes, the structure widens into communication and exhibition areas. at the centre are the new hall and cafeteria with access from the main square and the danube bridge. directly connected to them are the “canteen” in the west building and the exhibition hall, workshops and library in the east building. the void of the hall extends vertically into the east building and, with lifts and communication islands, forms a new spatial unit through all floors and functions of the east building. several skylights and the vertical spatial sculpture touch and penetrate the public space of the freed-up vaulted passage on the ground floor, communicating with the public.
