Social Pedagogical Center Korneuburg: A Sanctuary in Nature
The design of the Social Pedagogical Center in Korneuburg envisions a sanctuary where young people can find a sense of belonging – embraced and supported by nature. The surrounding park becomes the living heart of the home, a green refuge that interweaves with the architecture and nurtures the spirit, much like Mother Nature herself.
The circular form of the building symbolizes unity and protection – a gentle embrace that enters into a dialogue with the traditional quadrangular farmstead. Beneath one expansive roof, three crescent-shaped volumes converge to form an open courtyard, creating opportunities for connection while maintaining a sense of intimacy. This concentric arrangement follows a rhythm of growth and connection. From the vibrant green center, through shared communal spaces, and outward to private retreats, the architecture mirrors the journey from individuality to community. It offers places for solitude, togetherness, and shared experiences.
Set harmoniously within its natural surroundings, the building carefully preserves existing mature trees, weaving them into the fabric of the design. Every view opens onto either the park or the inner courtyard, blurring the boundary between interior and exterior. In its simplicity, the structure offers a mosaic of experiences – open yet sheltered, sunlit yet tranquil. It is a vibrant haven that honors the deep bond between people and nature.

Credits
Architecture
Atelier Thomas Pucher; Thomas Pucher, Erich Ranegger, Magnus Griesbeck, Marlies Rief, Cornelia Pirker, Luka Saric, Katazyna Szyjka, Oleksandr Vyshnevskiy, Hannes Stöffler, Milos Krstic, Mikolaj Cielniak
Client
Amt der Niederösterreichischen Landesregierung
Year of completion
2024
Location
Korneuburg, Austria
Total area
2.500 m2
Site area
34.000 m2
Photos
Simon Oberdorfer, Crystal O’Brien-Kupfner
Project Partners
Landscape architecture and garden design consultant: Marlies Rief
Structural engineering: ConLignum ZT GmbH
Building services engineering: DIEHAUSTECHNIKER Technisches Büro GmbH
Electrical engineering: DIEHAUSTECHNIKER Technisches Büro GmbH
Building physics: Roland Müller
Fire protection: Norbert Rabl ZT GmbH