Karl Hayek 1910-1994

At the Architecture House of Carinthia, the Carinthian Building Archive presents the hitherto little-known work of architect Karl Hayek. His contribution to the reconstruction and urban development of Villach after the wartime destruction, in close collaboration with Rudolf Wurzer, is particularly noteworthy. Hayek's distinctive buildings remain a visible presence and continue to shape the cityscape today.

The exhibition showcases Karl Hayek's key architectural works and their origins: from designs and sketches to photographs and documents from the construction and completion phases, as well as later modifications by subsequent architects. It offers insights into Hayek's contribution to the urban development of Villach and its defining buildings.

The focus is on the new Villach Town Hall, the Canaval House, the former Mercedes-Benz building, and carefully integrated developments on the main square. The future of the former Warmuth department store remains uncertain despite its listed building status; buildings such as the Elite Cinema have been demolished, and others have undergone significant alterations.

Historical photographs, such as those by Hansjörg Abuja, are juxtaposed with contemporary photographs by Gerhard Maurer. In 2019, parts of Hayek's estate were transferred to the Carinthian Building Archive via the Lepuschitz family. Building on this, Herbert Nagl wrote a master's thesis at the Alpen-Adria University, which deepened his research and served as the central basis for the exhibition.

Opening: November 18, 2025, 6:00 PM