06. August 2001 - Architekturzentrum Wien
The precisely north-south oriented Triest Street, with its disperse, architecturally undefined surroundings, conveys an atmosphere of suburban aesthetics similar to that of the drawing. Against this backdrop, the transparent edifice of the Bicycle and Motorcycle Exchange materializes as an original solitary element.
The peculiar shape of the building is a response to the configuration of the site. The slanting glass façade, covered with advertisements, becomes a transparent billboard.
The design spotlights the product within: the ideas of speed and motion are captured by the streamlined shape of the reinforced concrete, glass and steel skeleton construction. The interior décor is neutral and unobtrusive. Only an expansive bar in the entry level, with dark wood paneling and an elegantly curved counter, vies for attention with the bicycles and motorcycles on display.
