Exploring Alterlaa Vienna: A Visionary Housing Project of the 1970s
The towering structures of Alterlaa stand as a testament to Vienna’s ambitious vision for public housing. Conceived in the 1970s, this high-rise development aimed to fulfill a utilitarian ideal: to create a self-sufficient urban neighborhood within the city, offering amenities like swimming pools, shops, and schools. Visiting these buildings offers insight into their design by architect Harry Glück, which house over 3,000 units and maintain a unique pyramidal structure that enhances the cityscape.
The Personal Journey of Bianca Gleissinger
In her documentary, 27 Storeys, director Bianca Gleissinger delves deep into her childhood home in Alterlaa. Using archival footage and intimate narratives, Gleissinger brings life to the nostalgic memories shared among the complex’s inhabitants. Her family’s past life in one such unit becomes the lens through which she examines the promises of this ambitious housing project, making her exploration a deeply personal experience.
Decades of Living and Community Bonds
The film takes you into the homes and lives of long-time residents like Peter, whose apartment embodies the aesthetic of the 1970s. With dark laminate wood and mid-century patterned walls, Peter’s space echoes the era he joined. His unwavering attachment to Alterlaa is evident as he fondly revisits footage of the buildings still under construction, remarking that he will only leave by force of nature, “I will only really leave when I’m dead. Not Voluntarily.” For those exploring the area, Peter’s story is a representation of deep-rooted community ties.
Community Spirit and Its Challenges
Despite its successes, Alterlaa now faces critiques regarding its aging demographic. Gleissinger’s exploration reveals a community rich in history and bonded by shared experiences, yet sometimes viewed as resistant to change. The complex is humorously critiqued as Austria’s “most successful retirement home,” a sentiment the director frames as a facet of its intricate social web. To anyone visiting the neighborhood, this balance of past and potential change is pivotal.
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Vibrant Social Life in the Heart of a Community
Alterlaa boasts an array of social clubs that keep the spirit of togetherness alive. Activities range from model making to pottery, with a notable collection of Freddy Quinn memorabilia curated by involved residents. While older residents enjoy these clubs, younger ones often find them out of sync with their digital lives, highlighting generational differences within this microcosmic society. Observing the vibrant and evolving social interactions here is a key part of the neighborhood’s charm.
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Reflections on Housing and Humanity
Gleissinger’s film captures the diverse interactions and everyday life that keep Alterlaa vibrant. From the structured greenspaces to the bustling malls, the community’s support systems are thorough. Here, tenants hold influence through advisory boards and can veto community changes, underscoring a rare autonomy and communal power. Yet, Gleissinger reflects on the gap between life’s idealistic promises and its realities, reminding viewers that human experience often fluctuates beyond planner’s visions. These reflections provide a deeper understanding of community dynamics and housing intricacies.
The Story of 27 Storeys
In her poignant and detailed portrayal, director Bianca Gleissinger (@b_bjonkers) invites you into a world where past and present converge, raising timeless questions about urban living and the spaces we call home. Produced by Mischief Films & Co KG, 27 Storeys is a must-watch for those fascinated by architectural feats and community dynamics and who are interested in delving deeper into Alterlaa.
Sources & Links
Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
What was the vision for Vienna’s Alterlaa housing project?
The Alterlaa housing project was conceived in the 1970s to create a self-sufficient urban neighborhood within Vienna. It was designed to offer amenities like swimming pools, shops, and schools, fulfilling a utilitarian ideal.
How does the film 27 Storeys explore Alterlaa?
Director Bianca Gleissinger uses her documentary 27 Storeys to delve deep into her childhood home in Alterlaa, utilizing archival footage and intimate narratives. Her exploration is deeply personal, examining the promises of the ambitious housing project through her family’s past life in one of its units.
What are some challenges faced by the Alterlaa community?
Alterlaa faces critiques regarding its aging demographic and is humorously critiqued as Austria’s ‘most successful retirement home.’ The community is rich in history and bonded by shared experiences but is sometimes viewed as resistant to change.