Imagine living in a Swiss chalet. Here at Villa Waldwiese, you can experience a taste of that architectural style. This villa is a well-preserved example of the Schweizerhaus style in Bremen. It stands proudly at Am Lindenberg 18A and 18B.
Villa Waldwiese was built in 1893. Fritz Dubbers, a businessman, commissioned its construction. He also hired Wilhelm Benque to design the park around it. Benque was a renowned landscape architect. One of his last projects was here.
The park once featured a pond with an island. A bridge led to this island. The excavation from the pond created the hill known today as Lindenberg. Later, the property was divided between Dubbers’ sons.
In 1910, Heinrich von Gröning, a tobacco merchant, acquired the house. His daughter Dorothea Klosterkemper lived here for many years. She was the widow of Generalmajor Bernhard Klosterkemper. Because of her, some locals called it “Villa Klosterkemper.” Dorothea lived here from 1910 to 1993.
The estate included a Hofmeierhaus, a large greenhouse, a remise with garages, and a pump house. This pump house had a diesel engine. It ensured the supply of electricity and water. Dorothea was a keen gardener and kept sheep. During World War II, she grew vegetables. Up to 25 people lived in the Villa and Hofmeierhaus.
The remise was rented out as an apartment until the early 1990s. From 1992 to 1996, parts of the TV series “Nicht von schlechten Eltern” were filmed here. After Dorothea Klosterkemper’s death, the property was redeveloped. The garden was built on.
Today, Villa Waldwiese houses three apartments and offices. The building has been a protected monument since 2008. Villa Waldwiese sits near Bremen’s border with Lower Saxony. It is in the St. Magnus district.
The villa is an example of Historismus architecture. It showcases elements of the late 19th century. The design incorporates features of the Swiss chalet style. These elements blend with Italian and French Renaissance forms.
The facade features terracotta-red brick. It is adorned with plasterwork. The roof has black tiles. Some original details remain, including wooden structures and iron balcony railings. Inside, you can still see tile floors, stucco ceilings and period doors.
Villa Waldwiese stands out because of its well-preserved state. It offers a glimpse into the past. Its architecture and history make it a unique landmark in Bremen.