Landhaus Zankapfel

Why “Zankapfel,” or “bone of contention,” for such a charming house? Here we stand before Landhaus Zankapfel, an elegant villa in Potsdam’s Neubabelsberg district. Built in 1908, this house holds a special place in architectural history. It was designed by Emilie Winkelmann, Germany’s first independent female architect. Landhaus Zankapfel was commissioned by Jenny Grupe, a widow of an officer. She shared the house with her two artist daughters, Adele and Margot. The house’s design reflects the sisters’ equal standing. Even the room placements maximized sunlight for each. The steeply pitched mansard roof is a defining feature, giving Landhaus Zankapfel a unique character. Emilie Winkelmann was a significant figure in the women’s movement. She designed the first German women’s shelter. The Grupe sisters were also connected to this movement. They knew other prominent figures like Elisabeth Wentzel-Heckmann and Hedwig Heyl. The name “Zankapfel” remains a mystery. One theory is that the three women, like the Greek goddesses Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite, might have engaged in playful rivalry. The house is more than just a building. It represents a story of strong, independent women at the turn of the 20th century. The sisters later moved to Prieros and established a housekeeping school. They remained unmarried, dedicated to their professions. Yet, stories of Landhaus Zankapfel echoed through their family. It was a cherished memory. The house fell into disrepair after being used by the Film University. When the current owners bought it, it had been altered and neglected. The restoration was a painstaking process. Documents from Emilie Winkelmann’s office were lost in a fire during the war. Only two cupboards and the main staircase remained from the original furnishings. The restoration team relied on their detective skills. They worked with the Denkmalpflege, or historical preservation authority, to revive Landhaus Zankapfel’s original charm. The result is a vibrant, historically significant home, a testament to the talent of Emilie Winkelmann and the spirit of the women who lived here. Today, Landhaus Zankapfel stands as a symbol of a bygone era. It whispers stories of art, independence, and sisterhood.