Seventy-two million marks. That’s how much the western part of Tempelhofer Feld cost in 1910. A staggering sum. This was the price for the land that would become Gartenstadt Neu-Tempelhof. Imagine the negotiations. The deals. The dreams built on this very soil.
Today we stand before Gartenstadt Neu-Tempelhof a unique residential area in Berlin. This wasn’t always the case. The initial plan called for dense five-story buildings. The military wanted a high sale price. They envisioned a very different Neu-Tempelhof.
World War I and inflation intervened. The original plan was abandoned. A new vision emerged. Inspired by English garden cities Gartenstadt Neu-Tempelhof was born. It became the largest garden city in Berlin. This was a remarkable feat. A testament to resilience and changing urban ideals.
Fritz Bräuning the Tempelhof district town planner played a crucial role. He shaped its development. His plans created a unique atmosphere. He managed to integrate winding streets and a generous green belt. The result was idyllic. It offered a tranquil escape within a bustling city.
The area was designed for a wealthy middle class. Amenities were generous. Electric street lighting was a modern touch. A U-Bahn connection ensured excellent access. The plan included two churches five schools and an administrative building. The centerpiece was a wide park ring. It formed a horseshoe around the Gartenstadt. It connected Viktoriapark and other Tempelhof green spaces.
About 2000 houses were planned. Most were two-story single-family homes. Each came with a sizable garden. Construction was interrupted by World War II. Only around 1000 homes were eventually completed by 1930.
Even after the war the Gartenstadt continued to evolve. New buildings reflected post-war architectural styles. Some areas were rebuilt after war damage. The resulting architectural diversity is fascinating.
Notice the varying widths of the front gardens. Some extend up to twelve meters. This design created a rhythmic sequence of different street spaces. The buildings are mostly painted in a uniform color. This gave a coherent visual effect. It enhanced the overall charm of Gartenstadt Neu-Tempelhof.
The park ring itself is a marvel. It features alternating open spaces and dense planting. It has playgrounds and water features. Even today it remains a beautiful green space. It was restored in 2009 a testament to the community’s commitment.
Gartenstadt Neu-Tempelhof also bears a darker history. The street names tell a story. Many are named after First World War fighter pilots. After the war plans to rename the streets after pacifist writers were abandoned. This reflects the shifting political tides of the time.
Today Gartenstadt Neu-Tempelhof thrives. It’s a desirable place to live. It has proximity to the city center excellent transport links and a peaceful atmosphere. It is a unique example of urban planning. A hidden gem in the heart of Berlin. We’ve only just scratched the surface of its rich past.