Smartvoll architects creates sculptural loft inside Salzburg's historic Panzerhalle

Back in 2013, Vienna-based practice Smartvoll architects was named the competition winner to design a captivating 2-story loft inside a former tank station of the historic Panzerhalle, in Salzburg's Maxglan district. In their design, Smartvoll aimed to preserve the original charm of the 350-square-meter space, while enriching it with contemporary elements and dynamic forms — most notably the sculptural concrete staircase that shapes the entire interior.

Smartvoll shared more details (and a video feature!) about this stunning project below.

The bedroom, bathroom, and guestroom are distributed throughout the space, which is rounded off by the concrete “stair sculpture”. At the center of the space is a 7-meter-long kitchen block.

Described as “an architecture within the architecture”, the concrete staircase opens up all the different rooms, while also appearing to carry them. The staircase splits at both ends to create a roof over the kitchen.

“Through the stair sculpture, which spans across the rooms, you do not see the way between the levels as a vertical, functional connection, but rather as an electric spatial experience,” Smartvoll describes.

“Connections of space and view are being held intact marvelously and the room is not being cut into different bodies, but can be experienced perfectly with its impressive height of eight meters,” they add.

The architects emphasized the use of smooth, waxed concrete throughout the gallery-like interior, which is accented with subtle, semi-transparent materials like Profilit, curtains, and integrated furniture. Another unique detail is the protruding glass shower cubicle.

At the lower level, the loft is connected to two outdoor balconies, which appear like additional alcoves. The balconies feature what the architects call a “zen garden” lounging space that includes a grassy knoll and a jasmine tree.

A video featuring the loft can be found right below, as well as additional project drawings.

Photos and video courtesy of smartvoll architects.