Az W Architekturzentrum Wien 5.3

The Architekturzentrum Wien, located in the heart of Vienna – in the MuseumsQuartier, is the Austrian museum of architecture. It opened in 1993 and regards itself as a centre for exhibitions, events and research on the subject of architecture and the culture of building. The Az W and its varied programme have earned a high reputation both in Austria and internationally.

As well as the permanent exhibition 'a_show. Austrian Architecture in the 20th and 21st Centuries', international touring exhibitions present the sheer diversity of current architecture. Work presentations, panel discussions, congresses, symposia and series of events provide a more in-depth engagement with the subject of architecture and the culture of building.
The varied range of tours, excursions, workshops and guided tours is prepared to suit specific age groups and target audiences: for everybody who wants to emerge themselves in the world of architecture.
As a centre of knowledge and for research, the Az W houses a specialist public reading library, an ever-expanding database of buildings (www.nextroom.at) and an online encyclopaedia of architects (www.architektenlexikon.at) that provides details of over 1.000 architects working between 1770 and 1945.

The active conservation of the architectural heritage of Austria is the primary responsibility of the Az W as the Austrian architecture museum. The Az W's extensive 20th and 21st century architectural collection comprises the living estates and estates of Austrian architects, the Achleitner Archives as well as the collections of material from individual projects.

A special attraction is the Architekturzentrum Wien's café-restaurant, designed by the French architect duo Anne Lacaton and Jean-Philippe Vassal. A visit to the exhibitions can be rounded off with delicacies under the oriental tiled ceiling designed by the Vienna-based Turkish artist Asiye Kolbai-Kafalier.