The geometry of the festival hall in erl, austria by deluan meissl associated architects derives its form from the site's surrounding topography.juxtaposed against a background of rock formations, its positioning relates to the landscape and the existing passionsspielhaus in which this new structure is oriented towards.
The topographic imprinting of the bordering environment is carried through to the interior of the building where two central parameters direct the architectural approach - the interplay of inside with outside - taking into consideration the spatial composition of the functionally optimized concert hall.
The staircase which leads to and offers access to the structure, is integrated into the terrain drawing visitors into the asymmetric construction of the grand foyer. a cloakroom and reception desk are situated near the entrance offering manifold views to the nature that abounds. in the opposite direction, another set of steps guides one to the upper level gallery, where the relationship between the interior and exterior
is again merged through the implementation of an extensively western fade made from glass. also located on this second floor are the secondary functions of the building. the orientation, room sequence and functional relations are integral parts of the architectural dramaturgy: ample communication areas, retracting and expanding circulation areas and varying room heights translating the building's tectonic geometry in a sensory manner.
The approach to the concert hall is staged through a gentle surge at the entrance level. the respective levels of the foyer are connected with the performance area through two entries. the latter is situated in the centre of the building like a shell, its rear being anchored in the rock. the overall spatial layout and pathways have been conceived as vast communication zones, narrowing and widening circulation areas as well as varying ceiling heights, translating the tectonic building geometry in a sensual and comprehensible way.