STRABAG Breaks Ground on €91m Development in Vienna
In Vienna’s dynamic 19th district, a bold new housing project is taking shape, aimed at delivering affordable, sustainable housing with a community-focused approach.
STRABAG, a European construction giant, recently began work on this €91 million mixed-use development near the U4-end station at Heiligenstadt.
With a slated completion in early 2027, the project will transform a former parking lot in Muthgasse into a multifunctional complex blending residential, educational, and recreational facilities.
A Bold Vision for Affordable Housing
With the dual goals of affordability and functionality, the Muthgasse 50 project features 238 subsidised rental apartments and 71 privately financed units, for a total of 309 homes. STRABAG’s affordable housing mission aligns with Vienna’s broader vision of making high-quality housing accessible. In addition to these residences, the development will include a student dormitory with 258 units, ensuring a diverse mix of tenants from various demographics.
Beyond housing, the site will host a range of amenities aimed at community well-being. Key facilities include a kindergarten with six childcare groups and a sports hall designed as a multipurpose space for local organisations. A dedicated 5,500-square-metre commercial area will provide office and retail spaces, bringing additional vibrancy and job opportunities to the area.
Markus Engerth, a board member at STRABAG AG Austria, noted the significance of the project: “We are thrilled about this major project to create affordable and high-quality living spaces in Vienna. Our city has already seen numerous examples of innovative housing concepts, and we are proud to contribute to this legacy.”
Sustainable Infrastructure and Green Energy
STRABAG has gone beyond affordability to place a high priority on sustainability. At the heart of the Muthgasse project’s energy strategy are cutting-edge renewable energy solutions. Solar energy will play a significant role, with a sizeable photovoltaic system supporting much of the building’s power needs. Additionally, the site will feature 70 geothermal probes extending 150 metres underground and a groundwater well, both essential components in minimising the complex’s environmental footprint.
The project incorporates energy-efficient design features, including thermally activated concrete core heating and cooling. This system enables efficient temperature control throughout the building while lowering operational costs—a benefit for both residents and the environment. Furthermore, EV charging stations will be available for electric vehicles, supporting Vienna’s growing push towards eco-friendly transport.
WBV-GPA Managing Director Michael Gehbauer emphasised the project’s forward-looking design: “With this project, we are investing in sustainability and a pioneering approach to construction that defines future living spaces while also shortening construction time. At Muthgasse 50, we’re creating a community for all generations.”
Modern Construction Techniques Streamline Development
To ensure efficiency and maintain quality, STRABAG and WBV-GPA are employing advanced construction methods that cut down on build times and costs.
Prefabricated components, courtesy of STRABAG subsidiary Mischek Systembau, are at the core of this effort. The prefabricated slabs include built-in concrete core activation technology, while pre-assembled wall units come complete with essential plumbing, simplifying and speeding up on-site installation.
The integration of pre-assembled utility shafts further streamlines construction by bundling essential piping for efficient, floor-by-floor installation. By using these modular techniques, STRABAG expects to reduce construction time by around two months compared to traditional methods, allowing residents to move in sooner.
Navigating Urban Challenges with Smart Logistics
Constructing a large-scale project in the heart of Vienna presents logistical challenges, but STRABAG has developed an adaptive approach to manage the tight urban environment.
Advanced logistics and LEAN Construction principles are being implemented to keep operations organised and minimise waste. These strategies enhance workflow efficiency and reduce costs, resulting in a faster build that also helps lower carbon emissions.
LEAN Construction principles enable STRABAG to limit the environmental impact of this project by optimising material use and minimising waste. This efficient construction process aligns with STRABAG’s commitment to sustainable development and responsible construction.
STRABAG: Building with Purpose and Responsibility
Founded on a vision of building for a better future, STRABAG SE is a construction technology leader dedicated to sustainable, innovative practices. Operating with a robust network across Europe and beyond, STRABAG provides comprehensive services that span the entire construction lifecycle—from planning and execution to maintenance and refurbishment.
As a forward-looking company, STRABAG invests heavily in environmental and social responsibility. With more than 250 active innovation projects and 400 sustainability initiatives, the company continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in construction.
In 2023, STRABAG generated around €19 billion in revenue with the support of approximately 86,000 employees globally. STRABAG’s approach is holistic, considering every project’s environmental and social impact, which underscores the company’s commitment to responsible building.
By collaborating closely with local and international partners, STRABAG is dedicated to advancing a greener, more resource-efficient industry. The Muthgasse project is a testament to STRABAG’s mission of delivering climate-neutral solutions that meet modern societal needs.
A Bright Outlook for Vienna’s Residential Future
The Muthgasse 50 project represents Vienna’s potential as a model for affordable, sustainable urban living. By blending residential, commercial, and community spaces in one complex, STRABAG and WBV-GPA are setting a new standard for multifunctional developments that cater to the needs of diverse communities.
Upon completion, the Muthgasse project will not only provide affordable housing and modern amenities but also exemplify responsible, innovative urban development that balances residents’ needs with environmental stewardship.
As STRABAG leads the way in advanced construction techniques and sustainable practices, Vienna’s future shines brightly, marked by projects that benefit both people and the planet.
