Foreword 16

Dr. Michaela Pacher
Director of the Austrian Cultural Forum Tehran

March 2024

 

Like Austria itself, Austrian architecture has a rich and centuries old history, which combines manifold influences from different epochs and cultures in the heart of Europe. From the Baroque buildings of Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach to the innovative theories of Adolf Loos, Austrian architects have influenced architecture across the globe.

For Iran, prominent Austrian architecs, who left an indelible mark on the architectural panorama of the country are Victor Gruen, Otto Wagner, and Hans Hollein. The latter gave a timeless aesthetic face to the interior design of the Abgineh Museum of Glassware and Ceramic in Tehran.

Austria provides for an incredible architectural landscape: from the urban centers of Vienna or Salzburg to the idyllic landscapes of Tyrol or Burgenland, one can find mighty castles, magnificent palaces, cathedrals, traditional mountain huts or modern housing and office towers rising into the sky.

Respect for history and tradition are essential to Austria’s contemporary architecture. In fact, modern Austrian architects today design inventive projects within and alongside historical infrastructure. Recycling the old is part of Austrian sustainability concepts. Architecture plays an important role in a greener future of the country. Thus, a stark focus of Austrian architecture is put on sustainable construction and eco-friendly material.

Therefore, contemporary Austrian architecture has achieved a high international status, especially in the field of sustainable and climate friendly design. In this magazine, twenty projects by eight Austrian architectural companies are presented to you.

I wish you a happy and inspiring reading,

 

Dr. Michaela Pacher
Director of the Austrian Cultural Forum Tehran