Place of expansive mountains and quaint landscapes, Austria is home to a distinct architectural canvas rooted in its natural context. Deeply influenced by the architecture of its neighbouring region while staying true to its cultural roots, Austrian architecture is refreshingly unique yet diverse. With a lineage tracing back to the Roman Empire and the Renaissance, the country houses a myriad of architectural creations, from the majestic imperial palaces to the avant-garde designs of modern architects.
Today, Austrian architecture continues to captivate with its harmonious integration of tradition and innovation, as it effortlessly combines the splendour of historic landmarks with cutting-edge contemporary designs, including pioneering social housing projects that prioritize accessibility and community development. The following list comprises a selection of 25 architecture firms that continue to influence the nation’s architectural paradigm.
Marte.Marte Architekten, founded by brothers Bernhard Marte and Stefan Marte, is an architectural firm based in Feldkirch, Austria. With their background in architecture studies at the Technical University in Innsbruck, the brothers established their joint office in 1993 in Weiler, Vorarlberg. They have been actively involved in the Central Association of Architects in Vorarlberg, with Stefan Marte serving as the President of the vai Vorarlberger Architektur Institut since 2005. The firm's portfolio encompasses a wide range of projects, including private houses, office and infrastructure buildings, and cultural objects. Marte.Marte Architekten's designs are characterized by a rigorous abstraction, reduction, and a profound understanding of the context. Their work has been recognized with numerous competition successes and international awards, solidifying their position as a significant architectural firm in the industry.
2. Baumschlager Eberle Architekten
Baumschlager Eberle Architekten is a renowned architectural firm known for its systematic and clear approach to designing and constructing iconic structures worldwide. Founded in Vorarlberg, Austria, in 1985, the firm has expanded to eleven independent offices and several subsidiaries in Asia. While specializing in residential and office developments, they also undertake projects in education, culture, healthcare, transportation, and landscape design. With a portfolio of over 500 projects spanning three continents, Baumschlager Eberle Architekten emphasizes comprehensive examination and meticulous planning to ensure quality, transparency, and trust. They prioritize sustainability by adhering to ecological, economic, and cultural considerations, and constructing buildings that meet stringent sustainability criteria. Their presence in key cities across Europe and Asia enables them to understand local conditions and maintain close relationships with clients.
The internationally recognized architectural firm, Dietrich | Untertrifaller, is renowned for its strong commitment to sustainable and contextually sensitive design. Led by Helmut Dietrich, Much Untertrifaller, Dominik Philipp, and Patrick Stremler, the practice operates from multiple locations in Austria, Switzerland, France, and Germany, employing a team of over 130 professionals. Their diverse portfolio spans from large-scale buildings to residential homes, defying specialization to foster creativity. With a priority on responsible resource usage, they have developed expertise in modern timber construction. Collaboration with local offices and partners is integral to their approach to international projects. Their dedication to sustainable design has garnered numerous awards, recognizing their innovative approach and the exceptional quality of their buildings. In addition, they actively share their knowledge through lectures and teaching engagements, contributing to the architectural community at large.
AllesWirdGut is an architectural firm with offices in Vienna and Munich. Founded in 1999 by Andreas Marth, Friedrich Passler, Herwig Spiegl, and Christian Waldner, the firm has a team of approximately 70 employees. Their approach to projects begins with a thorough analysis of the site and architectural requirements, emphasizing the efficient use of available resources. AllesWirdGut has completed over 70 projects, including notable ones such as the Doppelmayr Headquarters in Wolfurt, Austria, and the Maria-Theresien-Straße Pedestrian Area in Innsbruck, Austria. Currently, the company is engaged in diverse residential and office construction endeavours spanning Austria, Germany, Luxembourg, and Slovakia. Their efforts have garnered numerous accolades, notably the Austrian State Prize for Architecture and Sustainability, the State Prize for Design, and the Prix Luxembourgeois d'Architecture.
Franz&Sue is a highly successful and innovative architecture practice based in Vienna, Austria. Established in 2017 through the merger of two independent firms, Franz and Sue, the practice has experienced rapid growth and now boasts a team of over 90 professionals representing 18 different countries. With a commitment to delivering clear and high-quality architecture, they prioritize open dialogue and collaboration throughout their projects. Their reputation for excellence is evident through their success in architectural competitions, with over 50 victories in the realms of education, residential, and office buildings. Their achievements have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Lower Austrian Culture Prize, the Austrian State Prize for Architecture, and the Fiabci World Prix d'Excellence, further affirming their position as industry leaders.
Founded in 2003 by architect Bernardo Bader, Bernardo Bader Architekten is an architectural firm that embodies a strong regional connection and a distinctive approach that emphasizes the interplay between interiors and their immediate surroundings. The firm's work is characterized by the seamless integration of nature and culture, where each project portrays harmony. With a focus on refinement and clarity, every detail is meticulously attended to and executed to perfection with exceptional craftsmanship. Bernardo Bader Architekten continues to explore the relationship between Austrian heritage and contemporary design, undertaking projects that exemplify the fusion of tradition and modernity. The firm's commitment lies in creating spaces that resonate with the environment while showcasing impeccable design and craftsmanship.
Based in the scenic region of Salzburg, LP Architektur is an architectural firm that boldly defies the prevalent trend of touristic architecture commonly seen in the Alpine area. Their motto, "Form architecture - shape the Alps," encapsulates their commitment to challenging the status quo. With a focus on economic viability, ecological sustainability, and cultural compatibility, they prioritize these key criteria in delivering high-quality designs. Rather than replicating or embellishing rural houses, LP architektur embraces originality and uniqueness in their projects, acknowledging the abundance of such architecture already present in the area.
Founded in 1968 by Wolf dPrix, Helmut Swiczinsky, and Michael Holzer in Vienna, Austria, COOP HIMMELB(L)AU is a renowned architectural studio with a diverse and multicultural team hailing from over 15 countries. Led by Wolf dPrix as CEO and Design Principal, the studio has amassed over 50 years of experience in delivering complex and significant projects in architecture, urban planning, design, and art on a global scale. Their approach embodies architecture as a reflection of societal, political, cultural, energetic, and economic influences. The studio's dynamic, multi-layered, and intricate designs have garnered international recognition and can be seen in iconic projects such as the Groninger Museum in The Netherlands, the Musée des Confluences in Lyon, and the European Central Bank in Frankfurt.
9. Delugan Meissl Associated Architects
Delugan Meissl Associated Architects (DMAA) is an architecture firm based in Vienna that specializes in creating distinctive and impactful designs. Led by founders Elke Delugan-Meissl and Roman Delugan, along with Dietmar Feistel and Martin Josst, DMAA has built a reputation for their cultural projects such as the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart and the eye Filmmuseum in Amsterdam, as well as unconventional residential buildings. Their approach is characterized by exploration, emotion, technical excellence, and a strong focus on social and ecological considerations. With a team of over 40 architects and creative professionals, DMAA is currently working on projects across Europe, China, and the USA. They prioritize understanding the needs of each project, the impact of technology, and the potential contribution of architecture to society.
10. LOVE architecture and urbanism
LOVE Architecture and Urbanism is a passionate and renowned architecture firm. Their brand encapsulates their profound passion for architecture, and they flourish in the face of challenges, relishing the chance to craft environments that emanate ambiance and delight. By emphasizing meticulousness and exacting design criteria, they approach every undertaking with eagerness, practicality, and an unwavering focus on minutiae. Established in 1998 by Mark Jenewein, Bernhard Schönherr, and Herwig Kleinhapl, three visionary architects, the company boasts a wide-ranging proficiency spanning architecture, urban planning, interior design, project development, and marketing. Currently engaged in multiple building projects across Europe and having undertaken previous project developments in Asia, LOVE Architecture and Urbanism continues to demonstrate its commitment to delivering exceptional design solutions.
The architectural firm specializes in the planning and execution of projects spanning various scales and functions. Their primary focus revolves around the development of sustainable building concepts, placing particular emphasis on the utilization of renewable materials, such as local wood. Moreover, they are dedicated to creating holistic architectural designs that embrace the collaborative and social nature of the construction process. Founded in 2003 in Vienna by their Bregenz-born founder, who possesses a background in stonemasonry and engineering, and holds degrees from the Technical University in Innsbruck and the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna. Over the years, they have established project-related partnerships with other architects, expanding their capabilities. Actively engaged in professional associations and art commissions, their founder's involvement further enriches their expertise and perspective within the field of architecture.
Innauer Matt Architects, founded in 2012 by Markus Innauer and Sven Matt, specializes in creating architecturally rich and finely crafted works in the scenic Bregenzerwald region. Their approach involves seamlessly blending the existing elements with new additions, resulting in enduring and familiar places. With a focus on unassuming simplicity, their designs capture the essence of the surroundings and cater to the needs of the local community.
Established in 2005, Tp3 Architekten is a well-established architectural firm and general planner based in Upper Austria, known for their expertise in new constructions and renovations. Their experienced team possesses a diverse portfolio of projects, allowing them to tackle new challenges with exceptional proficiency. With a flexible and efficient approach, they are capable of handling projects of various scales across the entire architectural design spectrum. Tp3 Architekten places a strong emphasis on upholding the highest standards of quality in technical, economic, and architectural aspects. Guided by their principles of sustainability, sensible economics, personalization, and the creation of aesthetically pleasing and functional designs, they consistently deliver outstanding results.
feld72 is a multidisciplinary firm that intersects architecture, applied urbanism, and art. With a portfolio encompassing master plans, buildings, urban development studies, interior design, and large-scale interventions, feld72 has executed diverse projects both nationally and internationally. Their socially responsible, innovative, and sustainable approach has garnered multiple awards. A core aspect of their work is uncovering and enhancing the potential of locations and social environments. Additionally, feld72 extends their impact through the "Urban Strategies" project series, expanding the boundaries of architecture and addressing public space use and perception. Their methodology and expertise have been integrated into academic discourse through teaching assignments at various universities.
15. Caramel architekten zt gmbh
Since 1998, Günter Katherl and Martin Haller have collaborated on various competitions, consistently achieving wins and awards. Caramel Architects embraces the philosophy of taking on new challenges with each project. Their success in international architecture competitions has led to numerous contracts and commissions, including recent construction projects such as WiFi-Dornbirn, Science Park Linz, Operation Workshop Building Ansfelden, and Federal School Centre Krems. In addition to large-scale projects, the trio also engages in design studies and innovative single-family house projects. Idealism and inventive talent are central to their designs, and they actively contribute to architectural discourse through lecture series, courses, and art projects.
16. Dietger Wissounig Architekten
Dietger Wissounig Architekten is actively engaged in various projects, including the Hospital of St. John of God in Graz, bhb graz, waedf, and several others. Their approach to building is rooted in cultural contribution and the creation of identity within specific contexts. The firm prioritizes fulfilling functional requirements while incorporating connotations, imagery, and atmospheres to imbue their projects with intensity and presence. They also emphasize economic efficiency, considering construction costs, energy concepts, and regional conditions. Meaning is a central consideration, encompassing sensuality, emotion, depth of content, as well as constructive solutions and technical possibilities.
INNOCAD Architecture, led by Martin Lesjak and Peter Schwaiger, is a Graz-based firm offering architectural and interior design services across various sectors such as residential, office, hospitality, healthcare, mixed-use, and retail. Their approach is characterized by working outside conventional boundaries, with an analytical and pragmatic mindset that brings meaning and purpose to their designs. Drawing inspiration from diverse influences, they skillfully sample, expand, and reimagine concepts to create unique forms. Their work has gained recognition in prominent publications worldwide. With a forward-thinking perspective, a strong design background, and a dedication to research and innovation, INNOCAD tackles design challenges by developing context-specific concepts and solutions driven by passion and commitment.
X architekten is a dedicated group of architects who explore innovative approaches to contemporary architecture through project-based endeavours. The letter "x" symbolizes their commitment to openness, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and teamwork over individual expertise. Through cultivating an energetic and iterative workflow, they endeavour to reach an elevated level of excellence as a unified force. Their extensive repertoire encompasses a diverse array of ventures, related to residential and office edifices, industrial and commercial constructions, retail and entertainment hubs, and endeavours in design and urban development.
ATP architects engineers is a prominent integrated design firm in Europe, boasting over 1,500 employees. Established in 1951 as a traditional architectural office, ATP has evolved into an interdisciplinary partnership offering comprehensive architectural and engineering services under one roof. With offices in eleven major European cities, including Vienna, Berlin, Moscow, and Zurich, ATP's interdisciplinary teams collaborate to deliver integrated solutions for complex building projects. Their extensive international experience and local presence enable them to provide valuable support to clients primarily in Central and Eastern Europe.
20. Schenker Salvi Weber Architekten
In 2009, Andres Schenker, Michael Salvi, and Thomas Weber established Schenker Salvi Weber Architekten in Vienna and Bern. Their approach involves continuous scrutiny of design projects until the most creative and optimal solutions are achieved, reflecting their commitment to true quality. Engaging closely with clients and stakeholders, their ambition is to develop ideal projects through a collaborative process. With a diverse team of approximately 40 employees, their extensive experience spans Switzerland, Austria, and Germany, with a particular focus on residential, office, and educational buildings.
Firm Architekten is dedicated to crafting spaces that possess a captivating atmosphere. Founded by Albert Moosbrugger and Christian Feldkircher, their extensive expertise derives from years of experience as architects and client representatives. This dual understanding of the roles and needs of both contractors and clients within the construction process allows them to offer a unique perspective in their architecture and consulting services. Central to their approach is actively listening and understanding the needs of their clients, enabling them to deliver sophisticated spatial designs that consistently exceed expectations.
PPAG architects, led by Anna Popelka and Georg Poduschka, operates in Vienna and Berlin. Established in 1995, the firm has been dedicated to researching and developing architecture in its widest scope, with a focus on achieving innovation. Their mission is to continually define what is essential and groundbreaking in architecture, in order to serve and shape society. Recognizing the transformative state of construction, PPAG believes that planning plays a crucial role in creating a sustainable and prosperous future for everyone.
BEHF Architects, founded in 1995 and headquartered in Vienna, is a renowned architectural firm led by Armin Ebner, Susi Hasenauer, and Stephan Ferenczy. With a commitment to excellence, the firm has gained international recognition for its innovative approach to design. BEHF Architects combines creative design strategies with sustainable and cost-effective solutions, considering site resources and user needs. Their multidisciplinary team of architects, planners, interior designers, and strategists handles all stages of the project, from initial strategy and design to completion, ensuring a comprehensive and seamless process.
24. Gangoly & Kristiner Architects
Gangoly & Kristiner Architects, established in 2007 by Hans Gangoly and Irene Kristiner, is a renowned architectural firm based in Graz, Austria. Hans Gangoly, a licensed architect with extensive experience and a professor at Graz University of Technology, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the firm. Irene Kristiner, also a graduate of Graz University of Technology, has worked with various architectural practices before joining forces with Gangoly. Together, they lead Gangoly & Kristiner Architects, delivering innovative and high-quality architectural solutions.
Hailing from Vienna, Zechner and Zechner is an architectural firm renowned for its proficiency in architectural design and project coordination. Guided by the vision of Christoph and Martin Zechner, the company has achieved remarkable success in delivering an extensive array of endeavors, encompassing everything from private residences to expansive commercial structures, hotels, and transportation terminals.
The selection curated by the Archello editorial team is based on a combination of the amount of featured projects and the views they generated.
