BWM Designers & Architects

The town of Gmünd in Lower Austria is home to an expansive park (Schlosspark) through which the border with the Czech Republic runs, and in it stands an unexpected highlight: a palm house dating back to the mid-1800s. In preparation for its role as the central hub of the Lower Austrian State Exhibition in 2028, this around 260m², heritage-protected building will be renovated and expanded to include a new structure of approximately 820m². After the exhibition, the palm house ensemble will continue to serve as a versatile venue for events in Gmünd. The site’s unique identity will be retold in a contemporary language: the old Palmenhaus will become the new Palmenhaus!

The extension, designed by BWM Designers & Architects, draws on the positive qualities associated with palm houses and injects them into the new-build. While the historical building faces south, the new northern extension unfolds as a sculptural form, rhythmically divided into a series of arches that evoke a contemporary greenhouse. Its flowing, wave-like geometry breaks up and structures the volume, opens the building to the lush surroundings of the palace park, and playfully embraces the historic Palmenhaus.

A palm house with two sides.

The existing, neoclassical building was originally flanked by glasshouses that no longer exist today. In line with the requirements of the Federal Monuments Office, the new side extensions will be reconstructions of these former glass structures. From the south, visitors will therefore experience a historically faithful view of the building. Approaching from the town square through the Schlosspark in the north, however, a completely different impression emerges: instead of the previously closed, uninviting rear façade, visitors are now met with a striking architectural sculpture. It feels open and welcoming and, with its inviting terrace oriented towards the park, creates a direct dialogue with the public green space.