German Embassy in Vienna

  • Location: Wien (A)
  • Client: Federal Republic of Germany
  • Realisation: 2016 – 2025

Located in the heart of Vienna’s 3rd district, the site of the German Embassy stands out as an exception: a building embedded within the dense urban fabric, yet surrounded by a generous expanse of green space. Our design introduces an open bel étage that seamlessly connects the embassy’s interior spaces with the surrounding park. This interplay creates a new architectural typology—an open, welcoming structure that engages in dialogue with its environment. The spatial concept embraces transparency and openness while fully complying with all necessary security requirements—without letting them define the architectural language.

The previous embassy buildings—seen here from Reisnerstraße—interpreted the site’s lush green surroundings and mature trees…
The previous embassy buildings—seen here from Reisnerstraße—interpreted the site’s lush green surroundings and mature trees merely as a forecourt, disconnected from the embassy’s representational outdoor spaces. Our design in Vienna sought to reframe this relationship, integrating landscape and architecture into a cohesive whole. Before completion, the project sparked public debate—a reaction typical of Vienna’s engaged architectural discourse. Criticism came swiftly and pointedly: “I can’t believe it! The ignorance of German bureaucracy is actually leading to the demolition of one of Rolf Gutbrod’s most beautiful and significant buildings—and the vain, foolish architects are playing along. Nothing more than a gentle renovation would have been necessary. Now we’re getting a truly banal shack, utterly unworthy of the Federal Republic of Germany—especially in the heart of Vienna’s embassy district.” —Dietmar Steiner in BauNetz, 15.04.2016
The new building makes more effective use of the site’s unique potential. As a “green…
The new building makes more effective use of the site’s unique potential. As a “green island” within the dense urban fabric, the German Embassy now radiates a sense of openness that reflects its expanded cultural and diplomatic role in Vienna. A distinctive architectural feature is the connecting wing between the Chancellery and the Ambassador’s Residence on Reisnerstraße. This element allows for fluid transitions between the embassy’s official and private spheres—accommodating the nuanced demands of contemporary diplomacy.
To strengthen the relationship between building and landscape, parts of the new volumes are set…
To strengthen the relationship between building and landscape, parts of the new volumes are set back behind the prescribed building lines. This spatial strategy structures the site into distinct garden zones: the Chancellery Garden, the Visa Garden, and the Residence Garden. On the northern edge of the property, a service courtyard is integrated. Visitors and staff access the embassy via the gate located along Jauresgasse to the south.
On the bel étage, the Chancellery courtyard opens toward the mature trees, creating a sheltered…
On the bel étage, the Chancellery courtyard opens toward the mature trees, creating a sheltered outdoor space above the plinth level. Together with the terrace of the Residence, this courtyard forms a spatial link between the formal areas of the embassy—foyer, reception hall, music room, and library—and the surrounding garden landscape.
The light Krastal marble from Carinthia emphasizes the interplay of white forms.
The light Krastal marble from Carinthia emphasizes the interplay of white forms.
When we visited Hans Scharoun’s German Embassy in Brasília in 2011, it was still in…
When we visited Hans Scharoun’s German Embassy in Brasília in 2011, it was still in its original condition. The light and uplifting atmosphere of its roof terrace served as a key reference for the design of the bel étage in Vienna. Unfortunately, certain elements—such as benches whose backrests once doubled as fall protection—are no longer permitted under current regulations.
Inside, employees and visitors are welcomed by generous, open spaces. A vertically continuous hall extends…
Inside, employees and visitors are welcomed by generous, open spaces. A vertically continuous hall extends through all floors, linking the entrance area with the auditorium on the garden level, the bel étage, and the ambassador’s offices on the upper floors. A grand staircase provides direct access to the bel étage, underscoring its representational significance.
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