Whispers of a bygone era echo around the Schüttauhof. This isn’t just another apartment block. It’s a living testament to Vienna’s vibrant past. The Schüttauhof stands proudly in the Donaustadt district. It marks a significant chapter in the city’s social history.
Built between 1924 and 1925, the Schüttauhof emerged from the “Red Vienna” era. This was a time of ambitious municipal housing projects. They aimed to provide better living conditions for the city’s working class. Architects Ludwig Tremmel, Alfred Rodler, and Alfred Stutterheim designed this community space.
Originally, the Schüttauhof comprised 309 apartments. Today, it houses 280 units after renovations. These renovations combined some living spaces. The Schüttauhof was the largest municipal housing complex in Donaustadt upon completion. It later lost this title to the Goethehof in 1930.
The name “Schüttauhof” has an interesting origin. It pays homage to an island once located here. This island, called Schüttau, was known for its riverside meadows. The naming ceremony took place on October 20, 1926.
Back in the day, the Schüttauhof was more than just a place to live. It had shops, a bathhouse, a kindergarten, a playground, and a library. These amenities fostered a strong sense of community among residents. During the dark years of National Socialism, Jewish residents were evicted from the Schüttauhof. They faced deportation to concentration camps. After World War II, the library served as a clubhouse for the Kaisermühlen Nature Friends.
A major renovation took place from 1993 to 1996. The facade received a fresh coat of paint in white and pink. Elevators were installed. The complex was connected to Vienna’s district heating system. Sadly, the kindergarten, once run by the Vienna Children’s Friends, no longer exists. Today, the former shops along Schiffmühlenstraße house a veterinary practice, an art studio, and a psychotherapy practice.
The Schüttauhof is bordered by Schiffmühlenstraße and Am Kaisermühlendamm. Moissigasse and Bellegardegasse define its shorter sides. East of the Schüttauhof lies Schüttauplatz. The Pfarrkirche Kaisermühlen is also nearby. The six-story building consists of 14 staircases grouped around two courtyards. Expressive decorative elements adorn the building. These include rounded bay windows, pointed bay windows, battlements, pointed arches, and round arches.
Locals affectionately call the Schüttauhof “Alter Neubau.” This translates to “Old New Building.” The nickname stuck after the completion of the Goethehof in 1930. The Schüttauhof then became the older of the two “new” housing complexes.
The Schüttauhof gained even more fame as the main setting for the TV series “Kaisermühlen Blues.” This popular show aired from 1992 to 1999. The courtyard at Staircase 7, known as Staircase 10 in the series, served as a frequent filming location.
The Schüttauhof stands as a protected monument. It represents an important example of Vienna’s municipal housing from the interwar period. Its unique architectural details and rich history make it a landmark in Kaisermühlen. So next time you pass by, remember the stories within its walls. Think about the people who have called this place home. It is more than bricks and mortar. The Schüttauhof embodies the spirit of Vienna.