ORF-Funkhaus

On this very spot, the ORF-Funkhaus stands as a testament to Vienna’s rich broadcasting history. The ORF-Funkhaus, also known as Funkhaus Argentinierstraße, isn’t just another building. It’s Austria’s oldest broadcasting house, a hub of creativity and innovation since its inception. Constructed between 1935 and 1939, the ORF-Funkhaus incorporated older structures on the site. Architects Heinrich Schmid and Hermann Aichinger, along with Clemens Holzmeister, designed the building for RAVAG. RAVAG was the predecessor of the ORF. Interestingly, none of the studios or two broadcasting halls have right-angled corners. This unique design element enhances the acoustics within the building. The ORF-Funkhaus sits proudly in the 4th district of Wieden. Its multi-story structure, housing the studios at the rear, borders the serene park of the Theresianum. The ORF-Funkhaus has a fascinating history. It endured bombings in early 1945, suffering significant damage. Despite this, the final broadcast of Reichssender Wien was transmitted from here on April 6, 1945. A temporary antenna, initially with a mere 30 watts, was installed on the roof. This was later boosted to 10 kW by early 1946. An extension was added between 1979 and 1983. This expansion was designed by the renowned architect Gustav Peichl. The ORF-Funkhaus has been a listed building since 1999. It holds a special place in Viennese architectural history. Inside, the large broadcasting hall holds more secrets. The Steinmeyer company built a magnificent organ in 1939. This organ featured 4 manuals, a pedal, and an impressive 72 registers. Famous broadcasts like “Autofahrer unterwegs” and “Was gibt es Neues?” by Heinz Conrads originated from this very hall. Even Heinz Fischer-Karwin began his career here. Today, the hall continues to host concerts, especially for organ and vocalists or instrumentalists. These performances are often broadcast live on ORF Radio Ö1. The stage has undergone enlargements over time. This was done to accommodate both the Radio Symphony Orchestra and the new organ installed in 1983. The new organ, built by Karl Schuke, features 4 manuals, a pedal, and 60 registers. Interestingly, parts of the original Steinmeyer organ were incorporated into this new instrument. Even the non-folding leather seats are a testament to the attention to detail. They are designed to minimize any extraneous noise. The ORF-Funkhaus is more than just a broadcasting house. It’s a cultural landmark. It is a place where history and music intertwine.