COOP HIMMELB(L)AU, founded in 1968 by Wolf dPrix, Helmut Swiczinsky, and Michael Holzer (left 1971) in Vienna, Austria. Since Helmut Swiczinsky retired in 2001 from the firm's day-to-day operations and his departure as a partner in 2006, Wolf dPrix is leading the studio as CEO and Design Principal. He is counted among the originators of the deconstructivist architecture movement. Coop Himmelb(l)au had its international breakthrough with the invitation to the exhibition “Deconstructivist Architecture” at MoMA New York in 1988.
The studio has a multicultural team from more than 15 countries and is over 60 people strong. With over 50 years in practice, Coop Himmelb(l)au is an expert in developing and executing complex, timely, and highly meaningful projects in the fields of architecture, urban planning, design and art worldwide. The studio is globally recognized for its innovative design approach and stands for a design that is dynamic, multi-layered, and complex. Coop Himmelb(l)au is currently working on a wide range of international projects throughout Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Recently completed works include the Nefertiti - Luxury Hotel Tower in Changsha and the BelView Tower in Vienna.