Description
By its decision made in April 2014 the Municipality of Körmend confirmed the intent to protect the Batthyány Castle Complex and the surrounding park located in the centre of the city; utilizing it for cultural purposes confirming to the need of inhabitants as well as visiting guests. The decision included making both material and human resources available for project development. A result of this is the preparation of the project proposal “Renewal of Built and Natural Environment around the Körmend Hunting Lodge”. In close vicinity to this development multiple additional projects are already under execution. Aim of the project promoter is restore the Hunting Lodge building (est. 1884) with respect to cultural utilization while focusing on ecological balance with the surrounding natural environment as well as embedding the facility to the local community. The former Hunting Lodge is in a seriously deteriorated state, its environment showing signs of abandonment. Tasks executed in the present following these aims result in long lasting effects where conservation needs for the historical buildings and environmental protection issues both have to be considered. The planned intervention covers the reconstruction of 346,79 sqm including a functional addition by developing offices and exhibition space for the proper dissemination of cultural heritage as well as guest rooms for visiting researchers. Works to be conducted include the complete renewal of the exterior facade, reconstruction of the roof, replacement of windows/doors, shaping of new functional spaces, engineering systems modifications as well as ensuring accessibility for disabled people.
Summary of project results
The aim of the project promoter was to restore the Hunting Lodge building with respect to cultural utilization while focusing on ecological balance with the surrounding natural environment as well as embedding the facility to the local community. Tasks executed following these aims resulted in long lasting effects where conservation needs for the historical buildings and environmental protection issues both had to be considered. The former Hunting Lodge was in a seriously deteriorated state, its environment showing signs of abandonment. On almost 500 sqm around the building and within an environmentally protected area, the flower beds, wheel well and dovecot (each discovered by historical research conducted in relation to the garden area) had to be reconstructed. In addition walkways were restored in harmony with the environment to ensure better access. Building details preserved in their original state had to be considered as protected historical elements. The intervention covered the reconstruction of almost 300 sqm including a functional addition by shaping offices and exhibition space for the proper dissemination of cultural heritage as well as guest rooms supporting visiting researchers. Works included the complete renewal of the exterior facade, reconstruction of the roof, replacement of windows/doors, shaping of new functional spaces, engineering systems modifications as well as ensuring accessibility for disabled people. The utilization and the spreading of cultural heritage was one of the tasks of the museum’s deed of foundation. A key intention behind the design of the new functional spaces within the building was to present the environmental protection aspects of the Batthyány heritage for a wider audience.
Summary of bilateral results