Press conference Secession Renovation Dome (2017/12/1) Photo: eSeL

The Secession will remain open to visitors and continue to present exhibitions during the renovations. However, for technical reasons, selected areas will be closed intermittently. Until further notice, regular opening hours apply.

Restoration of the Dome

The Secession building is one of the most imposing works of Art Nouveau in Austria. Around three decades after the last general restoration, we have initiated a fresh round of measures to rehabilitate and modernize the heritage-protected building.

Restoration of the dome and façade

Rehabilitation of the façade and restoration of the dome started in early December 2017. The wrought-iron structure with a diameter of 28 feet was dismantled for repair and enhancement of the supporting framework. Specialists are resurfacing and regilding the 2500 leaves and 311 berries. The dome is scheduled to be put back in place after approx. 6 months.

Additional rehabilitation measures

We plan to complete the renovation project in the summer of 2018. Working with architect Adolf Krischanitz, who also oversaw the most recent general restoration in 1985–86, we have drawn up the following list of measures:

  • Rehabilitation of the glass roof and the facade
  • Barrier-free access to the Beethoven Frieze
  • Modernization of the exhibition galleries (air conditioning and heating systems, illuminated ceilings, floors, fire control and protection, etc.)

Funding

According to the most recent estimate, the renovations will cost a total of €3.4 million. The Federal Chancellery and the City of Vienna have each contributed €1 million.

Donation campaign

To defray the expenses for the restoration of the dome, the Secession has launched a donation campaign. For a contribution of €100 to guild one of the leaves of the dome, donors can be part of the preservation of this prominent Viennese landmark. Please go to www.secession.at/en/dome for more information and to see an honor roll of donors.

Schedule:
2017
– August: construction work on the façade begins with a performance of Doris Uhlich on the rear scaffolding, in cooperation with ImPulsTanz
– November/December: the dome is dismantled
– December: the second construction phase inside the building begins

2018
– end of May: the re-gilded dome is assembled
– May/June: renovation of the glass roof
– end of June: rehabilitation of the facade
– end of August: construction work is expected to be concluded

Gild the dome!
www.secession.at/en/dome