“The phenomenon of intermediate space demonstrates that the characteristics of inside and outside, body and space, closure and openness, private and public need not represent irreconcilable polarities, but that one can be achieved with the assistance of its counterpart.”
— Fundamental Concepts of Architecture, Janson / Tigges
The design studio „Spatial Profiles“ investigates the architectural potential of in-between spaces through a close reading of selected examples of built architecture in Vienna.
The studio focuses on how intermediate spaces mediate between interior and exterior, private and public, enclosure and openness.
Textual descriptions serve as an initial point of departure for an in-depth analysis of predefined case studies. These analyses are based on observation and drawing, with particular attention paid to existing spatial configurations and architectural elements that constitute and articulate in-between spaces.
The studio positions the sectional drawing as a central instrument for both reading and designing architecture. The section is understood not merely as a representational tool, but as a site of intervention (P. Lewis, M. Tsurumaki, D. Lewis), through which spatial organization, structural logic, programmatic relationships, and contextual conditions are critically examined and developed.
Based on these readings, students formulate design interventions that emerge from a comprehensive understanding of the architectural, spatial, and cultural context.
Teaching Methods:
Reading, observing, discussion, writing, drawing, and experimenting with different drawings and illustration methods. Focus on design thinking in sectional drawings.
Design with and in the Sketchbook!
Lecturers:
Wilfried Kuehn
Basma Abu-Naim
Tutor:
Max Brandl
Further Information:
Kick-off: Thu, 19th of March 2026, 13:00.
Meetings will take place every Thursday.