Thematic Diploma: Transformation of the existing in rural areas

Interdisciplinary diploma

The thematic diploma “Transformation of the existing” is dedicated to building culture in the Danube-Bohemian Forest region and allows for design topics ranging from individual buildings to village-scale projects. The starting point is a joint analysis phase for the region, in which local building culture topics and processes are examined. This phase is embedded in the “G'scheit bauen” (Smart Building) project of the LandLuft association and forms the basis for a regional design guide. 

Building on this, individual diploma topics are located in specific communities in the region – from local development and public space to architectural design tasks. The focus is on dealing with existing buildings, the further development of town centers, the interplay between landscape and development, and contemporary strategies for further construction. 

The analysis is carried out through literature research, a research stay on site, and exchanges with regional stakeholders. 

Applications must include a letter of motivation (maximum one page in DIN A4 format) and a portfolio (max. 25MB). Please send your application by March 8, 2026 at the latest to
elisabeth.leitner@tuwien.ac.at and lorenzo.chiffre@tuwien.ac.at.

Further information is available for download here!

• Thematic Diploma Handout