Eurospar Vorkloster, Bregenz (AT)
New building
Client: Real Baubetreuungs- und Beteiligungs GmbH
Location: A-6900 Bregenz, Rheinstraße
Architecture: Dietrich Untertrifaller
Construction: 2005 – 2006
Area: 6,080 m²
Programme: Supermarket with underground car park (145 spaces)
Photos: Bruno Klomfar
Team
Thomas Spiegel
Text: Gerlinde Jüttner
Partners
Statics: Mader Flatz, Bregenz
Building services: Synergy, Dornbirn
Building physics: Weithas, Hard
A shield with a signalling effect
The elongated, 100-metre-long structure of the supermarket forms a large shape that clearly stands out from the neighbouring buildings. Unmissable, a building-length sign made of perforated trapezoidal copper sheeting, large parts of which can be lowered mechanically, signals "open" or "closed" to the customer. Behind the finely perforated screen, which also shades the largely glazed south front, the space is shared by the sales hall and a covered car park at ground level.
Our most important architectural means included economical construction, a clear floor plan, carefully defined proportions and the special effect of the perforated shield. This building is therefore also an example of how less is often more.
Slim, elegant proportions
The construction of the single-storey building is based on a wide-meshed column grid. It is barely noticeable in the sales hall, despite the visible reinforced concrete columns. Their slender proportions – thanks to the generous room height and low roof loads – lend them an unusual elegance. The roof is formed by narrow, high beams made of glulam, on which a ceiling made of solid spruce planks rests.
The positive impression of wood does not need to be shielded. The sparingly and accurately placed installations for lighting, ventilation and safety technology fade into the background against the clear supporting structure.
