Counterintuitive Building Types

An interdisciplinary project founded by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (2022-2025)

Project duration: Nov 2022 – Nov 2025
Funding: Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG)
Project lead: Graz University of Technology (AUT), Faculty of Architecture, Institute of Design and Building Typology, Prof. Andreas Lechner

As a member of Andreas Lechner's research team, I am contributing to a collaborative project investigating an under-researched segment of the planning and real-estate sector: suburban retail, commercial and industrial buildings constructed on greenfield sites and primarily designed for car access. The project explores how these monofunctional structures can be reimagined in line with the New European Bauhaus, shifting the focus from demolition to transformation, reuse and long-term value.

Using real-world case studies, such as suburban shopping centres, we develop and evaluate design scenarios that build on existing structures and infrastructure. The aim is to increase functional diversity, energy performance and life-cycle efficiency, while also strengthening public relevance and social impact. Proposed transformations include mixed and flexible programmes, such as communal, logistical, sports and leisure uses, and temporary living and working spaces, as well as upgraded energy systems.

A central goal is to transform underperforming properties into "third places": inclusive social environments that foster community, identity, and urban connectivity. Scenarios are assessed using key performance indicators, including cost, energy use, sustainability metrics and social value. This process is supported by modelling and computational verification. Ultimately, this research provides practical strategies for integrating these typologies into carbon-neutral, circular city futures.