Radical design through children’s eyes

The KinderKunstLabor in St. Pölten is a one-of-a-kind building shaped from the perspective of children. As part of the city’s bid for European Capital of Culture 2024, it offers a participatory platform for children up to twelve years old to explore contemporary art. Instead of a museum, the concept emphasizes interaction, with international artists leading workshops and exhibitions in photography, video, performance, and more—making high-level artistic engagement accessible and playful.

Participatory architecture and creative freedom

Architects Schenker Salvi Weber worked with a dedicated children’s advisory board, integrating feedback from local kindergarten and school groups directly into the building and park design. The result is a structure that is both ecologically responsible and creatively ambitious. Rather than relying on simplification or colorful gimmicks, the design respects children’s ideas, aiming to inspire joy and exploration without condescension.

A central tree structure and fluid spatial experience

At the heart of the building is a concrete “tree column” from which six symbolic “branches” extend, developed with structural engineers from Werner Sobek. This supports a spiraling “helix staircase” that winds up through all floors, offering a flexible space for play, workshops, and exhibitions. Above, an outdoor lab framed in wooden slats seems to float among the treetops, blurring boundaries between inside and outside while creating an intricate light-and-shadow experience for young visitors.

Urban signal and open creative campus

Located between the Baroque old town and the cultural district, the building acts as an urban landmark and integrates respectfully into Altoona Park’s landscape. Around it, sculptures and interactive installations by notable artists provide a welcoming environment for all ages. With flexible room layouts, playful sightlines at child-height, and natural materials throughout, the KinderKunstLabor is both an artistic hub and an evolving learning environment.

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