Picture this. You stand before the Bärensiedlung a residential development in Berlin’s Tempelhof district. Built between 1929 and 1931 it’s a protected monument. Its name translates to Bear Settlement. This charming complex boasts almost 900 apartments.
The Bärensiedlung isn’t just pretty to look at. It’s a testament to Berlin’s history. Architect Gustav Hochhaus designed its three and four-story buildings. The arrangement is unique. Buildings curve around courtyards. It’s park-like and green. There are even playgrounds for children. The Bärensiedlung represents a time when careful planning blended with nature’s beauty.
Hidden details add to its charm. Notice the four large passageways. They were required by fire regulations back then. Each entry has pillars topped with sculptures. They symbolize home and work. These were created by several sculptors. The ceramic work came from the Steinzeugfabrik Velten-Vordamm.
And of course there’s the Bärenbrunnen. This is the bear fountain. A bear sculpture sits proudly. It gives the Bärensiedlung its name. Peter Lipmann-Wulf designed it. The Mutz-Gildenhall ceramic workshop made it. The fountain though along with the Märchenbrunnen is sadly no longer working.
The Bärensiedlung’s history shows that it wasn’t always a residential area. It was originally intended to be an industrial zone. Yet the proximity of Tempelhof Airport meant that tall buildings would be a problem. Also the railway lines made industrial use impractical. The district council favored housing. This meant better use of land and existing transport options. So the area was rezoned for housing.
In 2003 the Stadt und Land Wohnbauten GmbH sold the Bärensiedlung. Extensive renovations followed. By 2015 nearly all 900 apartments had been refreshed. The building’s original beauty was restored. Facades were repaired. Stairwells were lovingly recreated. Even the exterior areas were revitalized. A new lighting scheme was introduced. This enhances the area’s park-like atmosphere.
The Bärensiedlung is more than just a collection of buildings. It’s a community. The Germaniagarten network organizes local meetings. Funding helps support social projects. One project even created a tree catalog of the Bärensiedlung’s unique flora. It is a place that thrives. Its residents take pride in its history. They nurture its community spirit. The Bärensiedlung’s story is a reminder of Berlin’s resilience and its ability to reinvent itself. A community thriving amidst history and nature.