Two listed school buildings from the 1960s are undergoing comprehensive renovation and reorganization at Enkplatz in Vienna's Simmering district. Our design respects the character of the existing structures while creating, for the first time, a distinct identity for each of the two schools.

The exterior appearance is deliberately preserved: Typical features such as terrazzo tiles, wooden handrails, French doors, and glass blocks in the classrooms have been refurbished or reused wherever possible. The newly constructed connecting wing between the two buildings adopts the character of the existing structures in its proportions and grid facade, blending in seamlessly. Its roof will be transformed into a green break area with raised beds and seating.

Inside, each school will house 12 classrooms, as well as administrative areas, multi-purpose rooms, and group rooms. A light well and the enlargement of the basement windows will allow the lower levels to be used for temporary classrooms.

The two dining halls open onto the schoolyard, creating a vibrant meeting place that harmonizes with all the colors of the building.

Two clearly separated entrances and a consistent color scheme – green for OMS I, which focuses on sports and language, and blue for OMS II, which focuses on music and the arts – give the two schools their own distinct identities for the first time. The classrooms are decorated in calming colors, while creative and group rooms are deliberately colored. The forecourt is also being redesigned: removing paving, planting new trees, and adding seating create a more inviting, cooler environment, and barrier-free access to the schools is being implemented. Photovoltaic panels on the roofs complete the overall concept.