Description

The Poolhaus, realized in 2007 by pool Architektur ZT on the former Kabelwerk (cable factory) grounds in Vienna, was an early project of the Co-Living concept. Not all characteristics of Co-Living are implemented, and, for example, the connection to co-working is still missing. However, the target group is characteristic, consisting of young working individuals, those just starting their career, and those still studying, which implies a relatively short period of residence. In fact, permanent residence is not even possible at the Poolhaus.[1] According to the non-profit developer, space is available here for people who are new to the city or who, for example, would like to build a new circle of friends and acquaintances for other reasons.[2]

The residential property is divided into two parts, which are connected by a generous atrium. All circulation areas, which run throughout the eight- to nine-story building, are open to the public and lead past the common areas all the way up to the rooftop pool. Community facilities such as the gym, sauna, and pool are publicly accessible and play an important role in neighborly interaction.[3] Only the communal kitchens, hobby rooms, and laundromat are reserved exclusively for Poolhaus residents. The project has 252 residential units, of which 33 are fully equipped conventional apartments and 219 units are furnished one- to two-room units with private bathroom and kitchenette.[4]

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Originally published in: Susanne Schmid, Dietmar Eberle, Margrit Hugentobler (eds.), A History of Collective Living. Forms of Shared Housing, Birkhäuser, 2019. Translation by Word Up!, LLC, edited for Building Types Online.