The Hackesche Höfe is an urban complex of several residential blocks linked by a network of passageways and courtyards. Their layout makes them a model of neighborhood living.
The Hackesche Höfe are a Highlight. It Is Also a Personal Favourite.
Throughout Europe, the 19th century was the age of industrialization. To support economic development, entire populations were forced to move to the outskirts of the cities, without any rethinking of urban planning. They then crammed miserably into insalubrious slums and socialized only in factories and workshops.
The working-class condition led to the emergence of protest movements, even revolutionary ones, rejecting exploitation and misery. By the end of the century, intellectuals were denouncing the damaging effects of industrialization and looking for solutions to ensure social peace. One answer was to improve working-class housing. But this functionalist dimension had to be sublimated by aesthetics: this was the birth of Art Nouveau.
In Berlin, architect Kurt Berndt and artist August Endell began in 1905 to build a new kind of complex in the heart of a proletarian district: the Scheunenviertel or Barn Quarter. The former rethought neighborhood life in practical terms, while the latter took care of the harmonious design. The result exceeds all expectations: the Hackesche Höfe are an architectural and artistic marvel. Today, these inner courtyards are among the most sought-after spots in the German capital.
Making The World Beautiful and Functional
Eight courtyards follow one another in a completely pedestrianized area. Some are dedicated to culture and gastronomy, others are more commercial, with chic fashion and craft boutiques. Buildings include professional areas with offices and workshops, but many are residential, especially those with a westerly orientation. This zoning and organization of space more or less follows the original concept behind the inauguration of the Hackesche Höfe.
The facades of the first inner courtyards feature colorful mosaics with almost organic relief. Curved lines sublimate the windows, and it's fun to guess where the former garment workshops once stood. The architecture appears to be in motion, inviting visitors to venture deeper. The residential courtyards are more modest, allowing natural elements to express themselves fully: a fountain, trees, an interior park and planted facades.
The walk ends with the Rose Court, a shopping arcade with other restaurants and shops. Its immense facade blends elements and shapes to play with perspectives. A new courtyard appears, bordered by flower gardens. As you cross it, don't fail to admire the magnificent Art Nouveau staircases.
A Model of Urban Planning to Follow?
Limited in time, the Art Nouveau movement did not necessarily seek to break with the past. Rather, it sought to re-enchant a world that had forgotten the importance of Nature in social relations. Architecturally, this reconciliation is expressed in an organic, voluptuous style. While the buildings remain functional, it's impossible to ignore the aesthetic contribution that gives life a touch of the dreamlike. This is a far cry from the modern, geometric considerations of Le Corbusier.
The Hackesche Höfe are the epitome of successful and convincing community planning. Each courtyard is assigned a specific function, creating a coherent, multi-faceted whole. But such achievements are only possible when the genius of the architect meets the genius of the artist. One cannot exist without the other. In this respect, the Hackesche Höfe are a source of inspiration for all creators wishing to rethink the city and social relations. However, the architectural style is not static and adapts to the times: the Sony Center is a contemporary version of the Hackesche Höfe.
The success of the Hackesche Höfe can still be measured more than a century after their inauguration. Despite the destruction caused by the war and their abandonment in East Germany, they have retained their former glory thanks to the restoration work carried out by the City of Berlin after reunification. They are now listed. A visit to the Hackesche Höfe, however brief, is a must.
Reasons to Visit
Architectural apotheosis of Art Nouveau
Perfectly laid-out courtyards
Fully secure complex
Reasons to Skip
High retail prices
Increasing influx of tourists
Lack of public benches
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