Two million Reichsmarks. That’s how much it cost to build this magnificent structure. Welcome to the Europahaus in Leipzig. Right before you stands a testament to Leipzig’s architectural ambition during the roaring twenties. This thirteen-story behemoth was completed in 1929. It stands as a powerful symbol of a city striving for modernization.
The Europahaus wasn’t just another office building. Oh no. It was conceived as a counterpoint to the Kroch High-rise across Augustusplatz. This was part of a grand vision for Leipzig’s cityscape. A vision that envisioned high-rises as pillars framing the city center. This vision was called the Ringcity-Konzept. It was the brainchild of city planner Hubert Ritter. But the Great Depression hampered its full realization.
The Europahaus’s architect Otto Paul Burghardt faced some challenges. He had to revise his initial design. The Saxon Ministry of the Interior intervened. The original plan featured a taller tower positioned at a corner. The final design is simpler. It emphasizes vertical lines. Burghardt eschewed ornamentation. The building’s grandeur comes from its sheer height and its stark elegance.
Imagine the buzz in 1930. The building opened its doors. A roof garden restaurant crowned the Europahaus. It was reportedly Europe’s highest roof garden cafe. It offered stunning city views. It must have been a popular spot for years. At the time of construction other tenants included Claire Sigall who had a gymnastics practice on the 12th floor. The Norddeutscher Lloyd occupied the ground floor.
The Europahaus has witnessed history. During the GDR era it served as the district administration for the state insurance company. The building underwent renovations in 1965 and again in 1997-98. More recently it’s been modernized. Today Stadtwerke Leipzig the city’s energy supplier calls the Europahaus home. Union Investment owns the building.
There was also an interesting connection to the world of golf. The first German magazine devoted entirely to golf was published from this very building. The publishing house belonged to the family of Bernhard von Limburger. He was a three-time German golf champion.
The Europahaus has evolved. It has survived wars economic upheaval and renovations. It stands tall a remarkable piece of Leipzig’s architectural and social history. It’s a reminder of the city’s resilience and its enduring spirit. A spirit that has always looked towards the future. Yet has kept its roots in the past.