Built between 1917 and 1928 Siedlung Witten-Ost stands as a testament to efficient urban planning. This remarkable residential area in Witten a city with centuries of history is more than just houses. It’s a carefully preserved example of a unique architectural style. The Siedlung Witten-Ost wasn’t built for miners as many believe. Instead it provided homes for Witten’s municipal employees. The city’s building department under the direction of City Architect Püschel designed it. Püschel also oversaw the construction of Witten’s town hall starting in 1919.
The Siedlung Witten-Ost showcases a remarkable approach to construction. Fifty-six house types all with similar floor plans created a total of 220 individual homes. This standardization allowed for mass production resulting in higher quality at lower costs. This building method was typical for settlements built between the turn of the century and around 1925. The large inner gardens were intended to improve the difficult supply situation for residents. Today these gardens are primarily ornamental.
The Siedlung Witten-Ost is more than just aesthetically pleasing architecture. Its layout and the appearance of the buildings are protected. This includes the arrangement of buildings the front gardens the garden areas within the blocks and the tree-lined streets. Even the connecting walls with arched passages and the former stables or storage buildings are all part of the protected area. This protection ensures the Siedlung Witten-Ost maintains its historical integrity and charm.
The Wohnungsgenossenschaft Witten-Ost eG (WWO) a registered cooperative manages the Siedlung Witten-Ost. By respecting the monument protection regulations WWO can offer comfortable apartments while setting itself apart from other landlords. The Siedlung Witten-Ost is a place where residents have a strong sense of community. The DRK-Café Schelle a neighborhood meeting place located in the heart of Annen is an example. It fosters community by offering services such as homework assistance and crafts classes. The Siedlung Witten-Ost therefore offers a beautiful and functional living environment. A place where history meets modern living. A harmonious blend of the past and the present. A true gem of Witten’s architectural heritage.