A visionary architectural project has reimagined a historic church into a groundbreaking, futuristic medical practice in the heart of Vienna. At the heart of the church, where pews once stood, two mirrored aluminum boxes serve as treatment rooms. The former confessional has become an exclusive beauty room, and the altar is now a reception area. Extensive structural modifications were needed to adapt the 1860 church to a modern medical practice.
This project bridges the past and future, setting new standards for architectural innovation in the medical field, blending sacred and futuristic design, preserving the church's historical integrity while introducing contemporary design elements. The treatment rooms, created within mirrored aluminum boxes, reflect cutting-edge technology, while the careful integration of advanced materials and forms ensures a modern yet respectful transformation.
The design successfully balances the needs of a medical practice with the unique constraints of the church. Treatment rooms, a beauty room, and a reception area are intelligently laid out to improve flow and efficiency. Structural changes, such as skylights and a glass sliding door, optimize natural light and create a welcoming environment. The result is a highly functional space that remains connected to its past.
The project creatively combines two contrasting elements—sacred architecture and futuristic design—into a cohesive space. The repurposing of the altar, confessional, and pews into medical functions, alongside the use of modern materials like polished aluminum and mirrors, demonstrates an inventive approach to space transformation. The inclusion of natural elements, such as the water feature, further amplifies the creative vision.
This project makes a positive eco-social impact by preserving an important historical building while modernizing it with sustainability in mind. The incorporation of new skylights improves energy efficiency by increasing natural light. The choice of eco-friendly materials helps reduce the building’s environmental footprint. Moreover, the design fosters a sense of well-being, offering a tranquil environment that promotes both physical and mental health, and contributing positively to the local community.
By blending innovation, historical preservation, and social consciousness, this transformation sets a new precedent in architectural design, offering a unique model for the integration of old and new in public spaces.
Medical Studio
SR Studio
Silver
Honourable Mention

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Zhen Song
General Manager of Interior Design Department
at Wide Horizon Invest Group
Transforming an ancient church into...
8
7
7
7
7.25

Jugal Mistri
Founder
at JMA Mumbai
10
10
10
7.5
9.38

Ou Xiao
Founder and Design Director
at Xiaoou Office
7.5
6.5
6.5
7
6.88

Laura Bielecki
Associate Director of Interiors
at Dubai Holding Real Estate
9
9
9.5
7
8.63

Bani Singh
Founder and Creative Director
at Grounded Design
8
7.5
8
6.5
7.5

Kevin Haley
Founder and Managing Director
at Kevin Haley Studio
7
7.5
8
7
7.38

Adrien Ganassin
Sr. Director F&B Design & Development
at Marriott International
8.5
8
8.5
7.5
8.13

Joya Nandurdikar
Founding Partner
at Untitled Design Consultant and Furgonomics by Ud
7
7
7
6.5
6.88

Fernando Sordo Madaleno
Principal
at Sordo Madaleno
8.5
8.5
8
7.5
8.13

Valeria Segovia
Principal
at Gensler
6.5
6.5
7.5
7
6.88
Designer
Client
MD Kerstin Ortlechner
Floor area
391 ㎡
Completion
2024
Furniture
Furniture
Lighting
Lighting
Finishes
Accessories
Accessories
Furniture
Sanitary
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