See those towers with the baroque domes? They mark the corners of the Meyer’sche Häuser Eutritzsch. These aren’t just buildings. They represent a vision of social reform. Let’s step back in time to understand their story.
The late 19th century was a tough time for many in Leipzig. Housing was scarce and expensive. Hermann Julius Meyer witnessed this hardship. He was the owner of the Bibliographisches Institut. This institute was famous for Meyers Konversationslexikon and Brehms Tierleben. Meyer decided to use his resources to address the housing crisis.
In 1888, Meyer founded the Verein zur Erbauung billiger Wohnungen. This translates to the Association for the Construction of Cheap Apartments. He invested his own money. By his death, he had donated seven million marks. In 1900, the association became a foundation. It continues to operate today. Meyer’s motto was “Benefit not charity”.
Meyer wanted to provide affordable housing. He secured inexpensive land on the city’s outskirts. He focused on cost-effective construction. He also emphasized self-governance for the residents. Rents were income-based. They typically amounted to about 15% of a family’s income. The tenants were mostly employees. They were also craftsmen and factory workers with children.
Between 1899 and 1901, this second housing complex emerged. It rose on the eastern edge of Eutritzsch. It was located between Hamburger Straße, Schönefelder Straße, Theresienstraße, and Bernburger Straße. The Meyer’sche Häuser Eutritzsch forms a large enclosed block. Its corners are marked by those distinctive towers.
Architect Max Pommer designed the Meyer’sche Häuser. He ensured uniformity in facade design and building height. The complexes included communal facilities. These included kindergartens and bathhouses. There were also lending libraries and administrative offices. The spacious courtyards were notable. Instead of rear buildings and cramped courtyards there were gardens. There were playgrounds and park-like green spaces.
The apartments themselves were simple and functional. They averaged 40 square meters. They had kitchens, water connections and small balconies. This was a significant improvement over typical tenements.
During the DDR era, the foundation avoided expropriation. However, the city controlled housing allocation. Since 1990, the foundation manages its property independently. Extensive renovations have been carried out since 1991. The foundation continues to promote affordable housing. It prioritizes this over profit.
The Meyer’sche Häuser Eutritzsch is a testament to one man’s social vision. Hermann Julius Meyer sought to improve lives. He provided affordable and dignified housing. His legacy lives on in these buildings. They stand as a reminder of his commitment to social welfare. They exemplify architectural beauty coupled with social responsibility. The Meyer’sche Häuser Eutritzsch remain a vital part of Leipzig’s history.