Atelierhaus Pfau

A symphony in steel and glass, that’s how some people describe the building right in front of us. This, my friends, is the Atelierhaus Pfau, a hidden gem tucked away in the bustling metropolis of Dusseldorf. Designed and built by the visionary architect Bernhard Pfau between 1956 and 1958, this building was more than just a workspace for the architect. It was a testament to his design ethos, a belief in transparency and lightness in architecture. Today, the Atelierhaus Pfau stands as a protected monument, a recognition of its unique character and architectural significance. Look closely at the facade. The entire structure is almost completely encased in glass, a feature that floods the interiors with natural light and offers a glimpse into Pfau’s pursuit of creating open and airy spaces. Interestingly, the fifth floor, set back from the street, was initially intended to have a flat roof like Pfau’s earlier project, the “House of the Glass Industry”. But Pfau made a different choice for this structure, opting instead for a traditional saddle roof covered with tiles. While Pfau’s Atelierhaus stands as a remarkable architectural achievement in itself, it’s also fascinating to remember that it was within these walls that he conceived and designed the iconic Dusseldorf Schauspielhaus. So, as you stand before the Atelierhaus Pfau, remember you’re not just admiring a building. You are witnessing the legacy of Bernhard Pfau, an architect who shaped Dusseldorf’s skyline and left an indelible mark on the city’s architectural heritage.