City of Design Graz: Architecture & UNESCO World Heritage

The Kunsthaus Graz is one of Austria's most iconic examples of contemporary architecture. Its biomorphic shape has earned it international nicknames such as the "Friendly Alien." The building is best known for:

• its striking blue acrylic glass façade, made up of more than 1,000 individually curved acrylic panels
• the distinctive roof nozzles, which bring daylight into the exhibition spaces
• the Needle, a glazed viewing platform with panoramic views of Graz's Historic Centre
• the integration of the historic Iron House (Eisernes Haus) dating from 1848

Designed for Graz 2003 – European Capital of Culture, the Murinsel was originally intended as a temporary installation. Due to its popularity, it became a permanent landmark. Floating on the River Mur, it connects both riverbanks and combines a café, an amphitheatre and a viewing platform in one striking structure. Thanks to its flexible bridge connections and a specially engineered anchoring system, the Murinsel is designed to withstand changing water levels and flooding.

With its sculptural façade and distinctive window openings, the Boarding House Argos is one of the most striking contemporary buildings in Graz's historic centre. Designed by the world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the building is a remarkable example of her signature fluid and expressive architectural style. Since opening in 2019, its apartments have offered guests the opportunity to experience contemporary architecture from the inside.

Beneath the historic Joanneum Quarter, a modern underground visitor centre was created as part of the site's redevelopment. Its most distinctive architectural feature is a series of striking glass light cones, which bring natural daylight into the underground spaces while creating a contemporary contrast to the surrounding historic buildings above ground.

The MUMUTH (House of Music and Music Theatre) at the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz is regarded as one of Europe's most innovative university buildings. Its striking exterior is wrapped in a monochrome metal mesh façade, while the light-filled interior is dominated by the dramatic "Twist" – a sculptural concrete core that connects the building's main levels. Combining bold design with outstanding functionality, MUMUTH is a landmark of contemporary architecture in Graz.

The Stadthalle Graz is one of Austria's largest event venues and a striking example of contemporary large-scale architecture. Together with the adjacent exhibition centre, it forms one of the city's major event and exhibition hubs. Its impressive 6,500 m² roof rises 46 metres above the forecourt and is supported by only four massive reinforced concrete columns. Eleven 18-metre-high gates can be opened to connect the entire width of the hall with the exhibition grounds.

For architecture enthusiasts, Schlossbergplatz is one of the most beautiful squares in Graz. It also serves as the gateway to an extensive network of tunnels inside the Schlossberg. In 2000, two of these former air-raid shelters were transformed into the Dom im Berg, an atmospheric, soundproof underground venue for a wide variety of events. To construct the glass Schlossberg Lift, the fastest way to reach the top of the hill, around 5,000 cubic metres of rock had to be excavated from the mountain. Tip: Look up during the lift ride for a spectacular view inside the shaft.

The historic Kastner & Öhler department store is one of the most impressive examples of the successful combination of historic and contemporary architecture in Graz. Over several decades, the complex surrounding the original building has been carefully expanded and modernised. Elegant steel-and-glass bridges, light-filled courtyards and modern glass roofs connect the different sections of the building, creating a remarkable architectural experience. A particular highlight is the rooftop extension designed by the Spanish architects Nieto Sobejano. The publicly accessible rooftop terrace offers one of the finest views over Graz's Historic Centre and the Schlossberg.

The modernised University of Graz Library combines historic architecture with contemporary learning and working spaces. As part of the redesign, an extension from the 1960s was removed, revealing the original 1895 façade and creating a new public square on the university campus. Highlights include the striking cantilevered extension, the light-filled glass entrance hall and the listed historic reading room with its original interior. The harmonious combination of old and new makes the library a remarkable example of contemporary architecture in Graz.

Graz Central Railway Station combines 1950s architecture with contemporary design. One of its most striking features is the historic station hall with the large-scale art installation by Peter Kogler, originally created for Graz 2003 – European Capital of Culture. The installation continues to define the station's distinctive appearance. The platforms and the station forecourt have also been extensively modernised.

The Forum Stadtpark is one of the most important centres for contemporary art and culture in Graz. To create additional workspace, the building was extended with a modern upper floor. Its distinctive white addition, featuring exposed steel beams and horizontal louvres, creates a striking contemporary landmark that is visible from afar.

Opened in 2017, the Science Tower has become a striking landmark of Smart City Graz with its distinctive architecture. As a symbol of innovative urban development in the western part of the city, it combines architecture, technology and sustainability, offering a fascinating insight into the future of urban living.

RONDO is a striking residential and commercial complex featuring a curved façade and generous green spaces. Built on the site of the former Marienmühle mill, it combines modern apartments, offices and studios. Large glass surfaces, spacious balconies and its location along the Mühlgang canal create a unique connection between urban living and a high quality of life.

Die Eggenberge reinterprets the traditional perimeter block development typical of Graz. Spacious terraces, a varied roofscape and a landscaped inner courtyard create contemporary living spaces with a high quality of life. The project demonstrates how traditional urban architecture can be reimagined for modern living.

The Nikolaiplatz Office Building stands out for its contemporary architecture and clean, minimalist design. Built on top of an existing underground car park, the striking steel structure adds a sculptural and distinctly modern element to the surrounding cityscape.

Set high above the rooftops of Graz, Café aiola upstairs combines contemporary architecture with spectacular views. A flat roof supported by slender steel columns and floor-to-ceiling glass façades create a light and transparent space. At the touch of a button, the glass panels disappear silently into the floor, seamlessly blending the interior with the outdoor terrace.

The Murinsel Café invites you to experience one of Graz's most iconic architectural landmarks up close. Inside the steel structure designed by Vito Acconci, you can enjoy coffee and refreshments in a truly unique setting – surrounded by a landmark that has symbolised the connection between architecture, design and urban life since 2003.

Originally built as a guardhouse, this neoclassical building was converted into a café in 1870. Following several renovations, it has become a popular meeting place with a charming shaded terrace overlooking the Stadtpark.

The contemporary architecture of Restaurant Schlossberg combines panoramic seating with cosy, more intimate spaces. A particular highlight is the Sky Bar, offering spectacular panoramic views over Graz.

If you would like to combine architecture with culinary delights, Tagescafé Freiblick is the perfect place to visit. Located on the rooftop terrace of the architecturally remarkable Kastner & Öhler building complex, it offers not only food and drinks but also exceptional views of the unique blend of Graz's Historic Centre and contemporary architecture.

The Kai 36 Hotel & Café Bar combines a historic building with contemporary architecture. The listed 16th-century property has been carefully restored and complemented by modern architectural elements. Particularly striking are the copper-clad rooftop extensions and terraces on the slope of the Schlossberg, which give the ensemble a distinctive contemporary character. The café on the ground floor also blends history with an urban atmosphere.

Located within Kunsthaus Graz, the Kunsthauscafé combines contemporary architecture with a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy a coffee, breakfast or a short break while overlooking one of the most iconic landmarks of the UNESCO City of Design.