Gau (territory) Austria in 1938, the country, briefly renamed "Ostmark" between 1938 and 1942, was sub-divided into seven "Reichsgaue". These had boundaries broadly the same as the former Austrian "Länder" (states), with the Tyrol and Vorarlberg being merged as "Tyrol-Vorarlberg", Burgenland being divided between Styria and "Lower Danube" ("Niederdonau", the renamed Lower Austria). Upper Austria was also renamed "Upper Danube" ("Oberdonau"), thus eliminating the name of "Austria" ("Österreich" in German) from the official map. A small number of boundary changes also took place, the most significant of which was the massive expansion of Vienna's official territory, at the expense of "Lower Danube".
Vorarlberg with the "Neue Vorarlberger Bauschule" (literally: "new Vorarlberg building school"). The Vorarlberg school evolved organically the second half of the 20th century, always involving craftsmen and locals in the building process. Today, it is regarded as one of the most important pioneers of the New Alpine architecture. With the typical architecture of Vorarlberg still recognizable, it combines tradition and modernity: clean lines, glass and local wood. Its harmonious mix creates interesting contrasts as in half-timbered houses. Comfort and quality of life are important criteria. Currently, many private houses and public buildings are renovated by architects, favoring local timber and limiting