An artistic-theoretical approach to space, language and architecture
The so-called Wittgenstein Haus at Kundmanngasse 19 in Vienna was designed between 1926 and 1928 by Paul Engelmann in collaboration with Ludwig Wittgenstein for his sister Margarethe Stonborough-Wittgenstein. The building is not only considered a radical architectural testimony to modernism, but also an expression of a philosophical understanding of space, which is reflected in the uncompromising austerity and formal clarity of the house.
The starting point for this course is not the classical architectural design of a building, but rather an examination of the house as a space for thought, a space for experience and the language of architecture. In a combination of artistic research, investigation and performative explorations, we examine the house and its space in terms of their material, historical and spatial qualities.
What architecture speaks from this building?
How does Wittgenstein’s philosophy – for example, his idea of a ‘logic of space’ or the ‘limits of what can be said’ – translate into built form?
This examination takes the form of text, film, drawing, physical practice, models, sound, installation, and other artistic-spatial media. The Wittgenstein Haus itself is at the center of a research-based creative process in which perception, appropriation, theory, and design intertwine.
Teaching Methods:
The studio sees itself as an open laboratory for spatial research. It teaches and tests artistic, performative, textual and documentary approaches to architecture. One focus is on working in the space on site and on collective formats for exploration and reflection. Planned activities include joint visits to the Wittgenstein Haus, input lectures, reading sessions, experiments in space, mapping exercises, media documentation and presentations.
Work will be carried out in small groups.
Lecturers:
Wilfried Kuehn
Marko Lulić
Carlos Mombiela
Ulrich Huhs
Further Information:
Kick-off: October 16th, 2025, 9am–11am.
Meetings will not be weekly, but will take place thursdays 9am–1pm.
This course will be held entirely in english!