In the heart of Vienna’s historic centre, the Palais Starhemberg is undergoing extensive renovation. The aim is to preserve the building’s valuable structural integrity in the long term whilst at the same time upgrading it technically and functionally for the coming decades. PCD has been supporting the project since the preliminary design stage, providing structural engineering services.
Structural engineering in historic buildings
The team is supporting the completion of the structural engineering design and, in accordance with the Vienna Building Regulations, is assuming responsibility as the structural engineer. A particular challenge lies in dealing with the existing structure: unlike with a new build, the design and structural solutions must be tailored to the existing building fabric and its actual condition.
To this end, the existing building is being thoroughly examined. Opening up structural elements, reviewing the current situation and condition assessments provide detailed insights into the construction, materials and structural condition, thereby creating a solid foundation for the subsequent planning stages.
Renovation in a listed environment
The work is being carried out in close consultation with the Federal Office for the Preservation of Historical Monuments and with experts in building research and restoration. Existing structures will be preserved as far as possible, and any necessary alterations will be carefully integrated into the historic architecture.
At the same time, the palace is being technically modernised. Among other things, the heating system, insulation and windows are being optimised, and district cooling is being integrated. These measures will help to further develop the historic building in terms of energy efficiency for future use. Accessibility is also being improved, particularly in the entrance areas.
Sustainably developing the historic fabric
The refurbishment is due to be completed by 2029. The project demonstrates how heritage conservation, sustainability and modern building technology can be combined: through the preservation of valuable building fabric, targeted technical improvements and a detailed analysis of the existing structure – without losing sight of its historic character.
