Jewels of Wachau: Wine Center in Krems

Emerald is a brand of the highest quality wines from Wachau-Winzer. However, the name does not come from the gemstone, but from the emerald green vine bush that grows in the vineyards of Upper Austria above the Danube, and is a symbol of the excellent taste of Wachau wines. The sun-drenched fertile terraces give this variety an unmistakable flavor that develops pleasantly on the palate. This is precisely what architect Christian Mang had in mind when considering the design of the new Wine Center in Krems. The realization of this modern architectural gem, which captivates visitors with intriguing visual effects, was made possible by the variable materials of PREFA Aluminiumprodukte.

Not only exceptional wine and beautiful scenery are characteristic of this renowned wine region on the beautiful blue Danube. Additionally, Wachau can now boast another unique feature, an extraordinary architectural achievement in the form of the Wine Center in Krems. The multifunctional building designed by architect Christian Mang meets all the requirements of a training center and, not least, that of a technically perfectly executed wine cellar. The metal facade used, with its range of reflections and unusual visual effects, draws on the latest trends in contemporary architectural design.

Nature is reflected in architecture
The goal was to visually connect the entire building with its surrounding environment. This was completely possible thanks to the PREFALZ roofing in the color of natural aluminum. Christian Mang stated: “We chose a neutral metallic exterior shell for the building, which reflects the diverse color tones of nature and surrounding buildings as well as sunlight.”

PREFA brings contrast
The metallic exterior shell of the building wraps around the upper part of the structure. Its shiny surface creates a clear contrast to the massively built concrete base that forms the lower part of the building. This optical division emphasizes the different functions of the building. The wine center houses sales areas, seminar rooms, laboratories for wine development and control, as well as the cellar section, which serves as a wine school.

Noble wines, noble building
High-quality materials were absolutely essential for architect Christian Mang during the construction of this center. According to Mang, it is especially important for buildings used as schools and study centers to serve as a model: “In my opinion, it is not possible for high-quality things to be created in unappealing or poorly constructed buildings. A product as noble as wine deserves an equally noble building,” believes the architect.

Material versatility
The roof and facade of the upper floor are discreetly cloaked in a skin of PREFALZ. This product, as versatile as the building itself, enables exceptional optical effects and dazzles with its sense of detail. The individual rectangular metal elements are arranged to increase the effect, similar to scales on a lizard’s body.

Longevity: the fundamental principle of the PREFA brand
The quality of the result is generally not immediately recognized by the architect but becomes apparent over time when his work remains beautiful, timeless, and functional. Christian Mang adds: “Modern architecture should reflect the time we live in on one hand, and on the other hand, it should express timelessness and enduring functionality.” This requirement is fully met by PREFA Aluminiumprodukte with its products—its aluminum roofing and facade elements come with a 40-year warranty and are manufactured to last forever.

ARCHITECT'S RECOMMENDATION:
“Modern architecture should reflect the time we live in on one hand, and on the other hand, it should express timelessness and enduring functionality. This requirement is fully met by PREFA Aluminiumprodukte with its products—its aluminum roofing and facade elements come with a 40-year warranty and are manufactured to last forever. I am fascinated by simple and clear shapes combined with high-quality materials and precise detailing.” Christian Mang, MANG Architekten

---

Range of PREFA products used
PREFALZ – rolled sheet:

Brief description: Colored aluminum rolled sheet is predestined for individual and creative roofing and facade solutions due to its excellent cladding quality and surface treatment.
Product advantages: Wide selection of PREFA accessories (drainage systems, fastening materials, snow guards,…); universal use (from arch roofs to complex attic conversions, vaulted roofs or large roofs); consistent quality; lightweight (approx. 1.89 kg/m2 with a strip width of 650 mm); long lifespan; recyclability; rust resistance; also available with protective film upon request.
Colors: 13 standard colors in stock, surface treatment smooth or stucco, warranty on color stability and quality for 40 years
Temperature resistance: from -50 °C to +80 °C
Cleaning: with high-pressure water, sponge, or brush
Processing: easy and lightweight to process even at low outdoor temperatures below 0 degrees
Installation and fastening: on full bedding (24 mm) with a separating layer, fastening with stainless steel brackets