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Max Perutz Labs Vienna

Architecture & Interior Design

For the Molecular Biology Research Center Max Perutz Labs, the motto “Catalyzing Change” marked the starting point for far-reaching changes. Together with the researchers, post-docs, students and service staff, we started a comprehensive process of organizational development. The goal was to position the center locally and internationally in a strategic and future-oriented manner.

The large back wall of the old foyer became a dialog format for comments and wishes, which was used intensively. It quickly became clear that there was a great need for opening up the hermetic research building, and for communicative spaces for creative exchange.

Illustration of the building from different angles

Opening as a signal of change

Before the renovation, the existing building was solid and closed. The façade was consistently opened up and light was brought into the spacious foyer with a transparent glass-only façade. From the furniture to the new branding and the visuals at the reception, all elements make the new identity of Max Perutz Labs tangible.
The old outside façade from the institute
Outside facade of the institute with glass facade and new logo
The new welcome desk with branding on the wall on the back with a man standing in front
Rendering of the entrance hall with the welcome desk and its branding

Study lounges

Young researchers are also taught in the building. That is why the open areas in front of the seminar rooms are popular places for students. Our interior design with individually developed furniture and pleasant lighting brings a new quality to stay in the rooms. It creates places for dialog, learning or preparing for a lecture.
The building from the inside with not so comforting atmosphere
The newly designed study space with with branding colors blue and modular furniture

Modular furniture concept

Cubes are the design units for flexible seating furniture, mobile pedestals and tables, which can be individually assembled. They were already tested as prototypes in the think tank room before the overall conversion. It was quickly booked as a meeting place. The anticipation of the upcoming conversion was palpable. Today, the furniture is used in the entrance foyer and in the study lounges.
Animation of the modular furniture concept
The lounge in the branding colors blue and the modular furniture, Max Perutz in the background on a wall as a photo
The modular furniture concept as a detailed image with blue upholstery

Max Bar on the roof

Long unused, the potential of the flat roof on the 6th floor was not integrated as a space despite the impressive view of the surroundings in St. Marx – the ideal place for scientific exchange, team meetings or a guest lecture. With the Max Bar, we planned a place that can be used indoors as well as outdoors for events. The gastronomic infrastructure provides service with quality.
The old terrace of the Max Perutz Lab in dreary disuse
The new bar at Max Café, with blue wall, blue neon light as lettering and modern look.
Overview of the entire café with seating areas and partitions, ceiling design and bar
Detail picture of the bar with flowers in the foreground
Glass front of the cafe with ceiling design with Patterson map branding
General view café with terrace and ceiling design
Detail shot door signage of the cafe with logo
Detail shot in cafe with capuccino

In cooperation with Bau- & Engergietechnik GmbH
(Building services & implementation planning architecture)

Muh!