Bureaucratic architecture: Josephist attempts to reform the public works administration in the Habsburg Monarchy in the 1780s

Joseph II's reforms in the Habsburg Monarchy during the 1780s significantly reshaped public works administration, particularly for imperial buildings and gardens. The study reveals that under his leadership, the Court Board of Works (Hofbauamt) faced pressure to complete ongoing projects swiftly and at reduced costs while adhering to strict financial constraints. Unlike his mother, Maria Theresa, Joseph II demanded immediate updates on construction progress and prioritized essential expenses only for maintenance. This shift marked a departure from previous administrative practices, emphasizing efficiency and fiscal responsibility in public works. The research draws on historical records, including the Hofbauamt's structure and its role under both rulers, to illustrate how bureaucratic reforms influenced architectural governance during this period.

Mader-Kratky, A. (2023). Bureaucratic architecture: Josephist attempts to reform the public works administration in the Habsburg Monarchy in the 1780s. The Governance of Style, 17–32. https://doi.org/10.7767/9783205217541.17