Picture this. You are standing before Haus Böhm in Cologne. A deceptively unassuming two-story facade greets you. It’s a building that whispers rather than shouts. This seemingly quiet house holds the secrets of a family who shaped architectural history.
This is Haus Böhm the former home of Dominikus Böhm. It was built in 1931/32. It is now the architecture office of his grandson Paul Böhm. The house embodies the style of modernity. Its cubic exterior and clear lines reflect the concepts of the Neues Bauen movement. The Böhm family a dynasty of architects continued their legacy here. Their work extended beyond residential buildings. They are well-known for their church designs.
The house itself is a fascinating glimpse into Gottfried Böhm’s early career. It showcases his initial architectural style influenced by his time in the USA in 1951. His journey took him to meet renowned Bauhaus architects Walter Gropius and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Their influence is evident in the house’s clean lines.
However the story doesn’t end there. In the 1960s Gottfried Böhm extended the house. He added elements reflecting his evolving style. Think sculptural concrete forms playful allusions to historical motifs. These additions contrast with the original building’s understated International Modernism. They show a unique blend of styles. The result is a house that seamlessly merges its past and present.
Notice the backstein brickwork. It forms a striking contrast to the later additions. Look closely. You’ll notice the seamless transition between the interior and exterior spaces. This is intentional. A noteworthy feature is the continuous backsteinfußboden flooring. It flows from the atrium into the surrounding rooms. It even extends outdoors into the garden. A round fountain is a centerpiece in the atrium floor. The design creates a sense of fluidity and unity.
The added pergola and stone benches create intimate outdoor spaces. They also showcase Böhm’s skill with creating a harmonious interplay of nature and architecture. The dovecote resembling a concrete sculpture adds a whimsical artistic touch. It’s a testament to Böhm’s versatility as both architect and sculptor.
Haus Böhm is more than just a house. It is a microcosm of Gottfried Böhm’s architectural journey. It’s a tangible link to a family legacy. It’s a testament to architectural evolution. It stands as a quiet yet powerful symbol of the Böhm family’s profound impact on the architectural landscape. It’s a story written in brick concrete and glass a story waiting for you to discover.