Länderbank; an overview

I have chosen to look at the Österreichische Länderbank (1882). While the building looks to be neo-classical at first glance, the overall spatial concept, the treatment of walls, structural elements, and the resolution of the materials at the detail level are distinctively different. This building was one of his first steps toward modernism.

Österreichische Länderbank (1882)

Representative of the “Viennese Renaissance”, this building reflects the views that tradition is to be the departure point for creating modern architecture. Command of the forms and principles of a given period or style should allow the architect to adapt the chosen style to meet the needs of the current program.

Wagner’s classical training is evident in the modified rustication on the exterior, the use of doric columns, decorative cornicing, and the mannerist entry space.

Entrance Hall:

Banking Hall:

Ground Floor Plan: